27/05/2023
WHY HEPATITIS B VACCINATION??
Hepatitis B is an infection of the liver caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). It is a condition characterized by inflammation and, sometimes, enlargement of the liver. It has various causes, one of which is infection by a virus.
HBV is one of five "hepatitis viruses" identified so far that are known to mainly infect the liver. The other four are hepatitis A, hepatitis C, hepatitis D, and hepatitis E.
HBV is spread through contact with blood or other body fluids from an infected person.
Exposure can occur, for example, through sharing of needles for IV drug use or through unprotected s*x. People who live in or travel to areas of the world where hepatitis B is prevalent are at a greater risk.
Mothers who are infected can pass the infection to their babies, usually during or after birth. The virus is not spread through casual contact such as holding hands, coughing or sneezing.
However, the virus can survive outside the body for up to seven days, including in dried blood, and can be passed by sharing items such as razors or toothbrushes with an infected person.
Hepatitis B blood tests detect viral proteins (antigens), the antibodies that are produced in response to an infection, or detect or evaluate the genetic material (DNA) of the virus.
The pattern of test results can identify a person who has a current active infection, was exposed to HBV in the past, or has immunity as a result of vaccination.
Using hepatitis B testing to assess immunity to HBV may take place before or after vaccination.
Pre-vaccination testing is not always needed but may be performed if there is a chance that you have previously been infected with HBV or have already been vaccinated.
Post-vaccination testing is used in certain groups of people at an especially elevated risk for HBV infection, including infants born to mothers with a hepatitis B infection.