Hepatitis B (HBV)
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What is it?
Hepatitis is the most serious and common liver infection in the world.It is caused by the hepatitis B virus that attacks the liver. The hepatitis B virus is many times more infectious than the AIDS virus.
How do I get it?
Hepatitis B is transmitted through blood or bodily fluids from an infected person entering the body of an uninfected person. This can occur through unprotected sex, illicit drug use, blood to blood contact or can be passed from a mother to her baby during the delivery process.
Symptoms
- about 30% of people have no symptoms - symptoms are less common in children than adults
- jaundice (yellowing of eyes and skin)
- abdominal pain
- loss of appetite
- nausea
- fatigue
- joint pain
Potential complications
- severe nausea and vomiting
- yellow skin and eyes ("jaundice")
- swollen or bloated stomachÂ
- a small percent will develop life-threatening "fulminant hepatitis". Which can cause liver failure and death
Are there tests for Hepatitis B?
A simple blood test can diagnose a hepatitis B infection
Treatment
There is no known cure for Hepatitis B although there are treatments that can help those living with chronic HBV.
Prevention
Abstinence or a monogamous relationship with an uninfected partner are both effective ways at preventing transmission. A vaccine (series of three shots) is available. The American Academy of Pediatrics and the Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommends all infants and children up to age 18 receive the HBV vaccine. The vaccine is also recommended for adults who may be considered at high risk for infection.
