HCV Hepatitis (Hepatitis C Virus) Giant Microbe Plush Doll
FACTS:
•HAV is transmitted by unsanitary food and water (frequently found in developing countries), or by direct contact with an infected person. It is non-chronic and relatively mild, though symptoms can include jaundice, fatigue, nausea, and fever. Vaccines are available.
• HBV is transmitted by bodily fluids and is far more serious. Chronic liver disease caused by HBV results in death in 15-25% of chronically infected persons. Vaccines are available and are highly recommended.
• HCV is perhaps the most dangerous of the hepatitis viruses. Like HBV, it is transmitted by bodily fluids. It causes severe liver damage in 70% of chronically infected persons; there is no vaccine available; and 80% of infected persons have no symptoms or signs of the disease - so not only are they at risk, but they can pass it to others unknowingly. Those at particular risk and for whom testing is advised include:
-I.V. drug users - most infections are due to illegal injection drug use
-Blood transfusion recipients before 1992 (prior to donor screening)
-People with undiagnosed liver problems
-Infants born to infected mothers
• HDV is similar to HBV, and only occurs in its presence, so vaccination protection for HDV is, for practical purposes, available.
• HEV is relatively mild and non-chronic; it produces symptoms similar to HAV and is transmitted similarly. However, no vaccine is available.
• HFV and HGV are newly identified; their connection with liver disease remains controversial.
Giantmicrobes Are Stuffed Animals That Look Like Tiny Microbes - Only A Million Times Actual Size!!! Each 5-to-7 inch doll is accompanied by an image of the real microbe it represents, as well as information about the microbe.
They make great learning tools for parents and educators.
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