Which virus is commonly associated with serious liver disease and is transmitted through blood?

The choice indicating that both HBV and HCV are commonly associated with serious liver disease and are transmitted through blood is accurate. Hepatitis B virus (HBV) and Hepatitis C virus (HCV) are both significant pathogens responsible for acute and chronic liver diseases, including cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma.

HBV is primarily transmitted through contact with infectious body fluids, especially blood, and can be contracted through sexual contact, sharing of needles, or from mother to baby at birth. Similarly, HCV is predominantly spread through direct blood-to-blood contact, particularly through sharing needles or other equipment to inject drugs.

Both viruses can lead to severe liver complications, making them critical to recognize within the context of blood-borne pathogens. Thus, identifying the dual association with serious liver disease and blood transmission highlights their significance in public health considerations, especially for individuals working in fields like tattooing, where blood exposure risk is present.