GIANTmicrobes: Plush Hepatitis
(GIANTmicrobes)

Available Now

Hepatitis C Virus

1,000,000 times actual size!

Facts: HAV is transmitted primarily 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 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 sighs of the disease - so not only are they are risk, but they can pass it to other 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.

This plush measures approximately 5" high and 3" wide. It is made of light yellow plush. It comes with a short description of the varieties of Hepatitis.

For children ages 3 and up.

Looking for a somewhat less giant version of this giant microbe? Have a look at the petri dish three-pack version here!

1 plush organism
Stock #GM6001 * $8.00

Related Links: GIANTmicrobes - Plush