Hepatitis B Virus

• Hepatitis B is a viral infection primarily affecting the liver.
• It can be acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term), potentially leading to serious liver damage.
• The virus is transmitted through contact with infected blood or bodily fluids.
• Symptoms can range from mild to severe, or even be absent, especially in early stages.
• A safe and effective vaccine is available for prevention.

What is Hepatitis B Virus?

What is Hepatitis B Virus? It is a DNA virus that infects the liver and can cause both acute and chronic disease. The virus is a major global health problem and a leading cause of liver cancer worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), an estimated 296 million people were living with chronic hepatitis B infection in 2019, with 1.5 million new infections each year. This persistent infection can lead to severe liver conditions such as cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma.

Hepatitis B Symptoms and Transmission

Understanding hepatitis b symptoms and causes is vital for early diagnosis and prevention. Many people, especially children, do not experience any symptoms during the acute phase of infection. When symptoms do appear, they typically manifest 60 to 150 days after exposure and can last for several weeks.

Common acute symptoms include:

• Fatigue
• Nausea and vomiting
• Abdominal pain, particularly in the upper right quadrant
• Dark urine
• Pale stools
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
• Joint pain

How is hepatitis b transmitted? The virus is primarily spread through contact with the blood or other bodily fluids of an infected person. It is not spread through casual contact like hugging, kissing, sharing food or water, or sneezing. Key transmission routes include perinatal transmission (from mother to baby during birth), sexual transmission through unprotected contact, and parenteral transmission via shared needles or unsterile medical procedures.

Key Facts About Hepatitis B

Several hepatitis b virus facts highlight its impact and the importance of prevention. While acute hepatitis B infection often resolves on its own, a significant proportion of infected individuals, particularly those infected in infancy or early childhood, develop chronic hepatitis B. Chronic infection means the virus remains in the body, potentially leading to long-term liver damage. For example, about 90% of infants infected at birth develop chronic HBV, compared to 2-6% of adults.

The most effective way to prevent hepatitis B infection is vaccination. The hepatitis B vaccine is safe and highly effective, providing long-term protection. It is recommended for all infants, children, and adults at risk. For those who develop chronic hepatitis B, antiviral medications are available to manage the infection, reduce the risk of liver damage, and improve long-term outcomes, though they do not typically cure the infection. Regular monitoring by a healthcare professional is crucial for individuals with chronic hepatitis B to detect and manage potential complications.