Microbiology Practice Exam

Which type of hepatitis might you acquire by eating raw tomatoes or green onions at a restaurant?

1. Hepatitis B

2. Hepatitis C

3. Hepatitis A

4. Hepatitis D

The correct answer is: Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A is primarily transmitted through the fecal-oral route, which includes eating contaminated food or drinking contaminated water. This is particularly relevant for foods that are eaten raw, such as tomatoes or green onions, which can be contaminated during handling or preparation in restaurants. The virus can survive in the environment and can be present on these food items if they come into contact with surfaces or water contaminated with the feces of an infected person. In contrast, Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C are typically transmitted through blood and bodily fluids, such as through unprotected sexual contact or sharing needles, making them less relevant in the context of foodborne transmission. Hepatitis D can only occur in conjunction with Hepatitis B infection, and its transmission is also not related to food consumption. Hence, Hepatitis A is the only type that is directly associated with consuming contaminated food items like raw tomatoes or green onions.