What can be done to prevent the condition?

There is little that can be done to prevent viral arthritis, except to avoid exposure to viruses when possible. Immunizations are available against rubella, mumps, and hepatitis B. However, the rubella vaccine can actually cause this condition, since it contains a live, weakened form of the virus.

What are the long-term effects of the condition?

Chronic inflammation of the joint lining, known as synovitis, can develop in people who have chronic active hepatitis. In other cases, the arthritis tends to resolve on its own, but this process may take months or even years. Other long-term effects are related to the underlying cause. For example, long-term hepatitis B infection can result in serious liver damage, liver cancer, or even death in some cases.

What are the risks to others?

The viruses that can cause viral arthritis are contagious and may be passed to others. The viral arthritis itself is not contagious.