Introduction

Hepatitis B is a serious liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). It can lead to chronic liver disease, liver cancer, and even death. Understanding the nature, transmission, symptoms, and prevention of hepatitis B is crucial for public health.

What is Hepatitis B?

Hepatitis B is an infection of the liver caused by HBV. It can present as either an acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term) infection. Acute hepatitis B occurs within the first six months after exposure to the virus and can sometimes lead to chronic infection, especially if contracted at a young age.

Acute vs. Chronic Infection

Acute Hepatitis B:

• Short-term illness occurring within six months of exposure.
• Symptoms: Range from mild to severe and can include jaundice, fatigue, abdominal pain, and nausea.

Chronic Hepatitis B:

• Long-term illness that persists beyond six months.
• Serious Health Issues: Can lead to cirrhosis, liver cancer, and liver failure.

Symptoms of Hepatitis B

Acute Hepatitis B:

• Fever
• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea and vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Dark urine
• Clay-colored bowel movements
• Joint pain
• Jaundice

Chronic Hepatitis B:

• Early Stages: Often asymptomatic
• Advanced Stages: Persistent fatigue, abdominal discomfort, and jaundice

Transmission

Hepatitis B is spread through contact with infectious body fluids, such as blood, semen, and vaginal fluids. Common transmission methods include:

• Perinatal Transmission: From infected mother to newborn during childbirth.
• Sexual Contact: With an infected partner.
• Sharing Needles: Among drug users.
• Household Contact: Through sharing items like razors or toothbrushes.

HBV is not spread through food, water, or casual contact such as hugging, kissing, or sharing utensils.

Diagnosis

Hepatitis B is diagnosed through blood tests that detect HBV antigens and antibodies. Screening is particularly recommended for high-risk groups, including:

• Pregnant women
• Infants born to infected mothers
• People with multiple sex partners
• Drug users who share needles
• Individuals with liver disease or abnormal liver tests

FAQs

What are the symptoms of hepatitis B?

Symptoms of acute hepatitis B include fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dark urine, clay-colored bowel movements, joint pain, and jaundice. Chronic hepatitis B is often asymptomatic in early stages but may cause fatigue, abdominal discomfort, and jaundice in advanced stages.

How is hepatitis B transmitted?

Hepatitis B is transmitted through contact with infectious body fluids, such as blood, semen, and vaginal fluids. Common transmission methods include perinatal transmission, sexual contact, sharing needles, and household contact through shared personal items.

Can hepatitis B be cured?

While acute hepatitis B often resolves on its own, chronic hepatitis B may require antiviral medications to manage the infection and prevent complications. There is no cure for chronic hepatitis B, but treatment can help manage the disease.

How can hepatitis B be prevented?

Preventing hepatitis B involves vaccination, avoiding sharing needles, practicing safe sex, and ensuring regular screening and counseling for high-risk individuals.

Who should get the hepatitis B vaccine?

The vaccine is recommended for all infants at birth, unvaccinated children and adolescents, and adults at high risk, including healthcare workers, people with multiple sex partners, and drug users.