03/11/2025
Hepatitis B is a viral infection that causes liver inflammation and can lead to serious complications like cirrhosis (scarring) and liver cancer. The infection can be acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term), with the likelihood of it becoming chronic being much higher in infants and young children (around 90% of infected infants) than in adults (less than 5%).
Key Findings
Symptoms: Many people, especially children, do not experience symptoms. When symptoms do occur (typically 2-3 months after exposure in adults), they can include fatigue, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, joint pain, fever, dark urine, and jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes).
Transmission: The virus is transmitted through contact with infected bodily fluids such as blood, semen, and vaginal fluids. Common transmission routes include:
From an infected mother to her baby during childbirth.
Unprotected s*xual contact.
Sharing contaminated needles, syringes, or other drug injection equipment.
Sharing personal items like razors or toothbrushes.
Tattoos or piercings with unsterile equipment.
Prevention: The most effective preventive measure is the safe and effective hepatitis B vaccine, which offers nearly 100% protection. Universal infant vaccination is recommended, with the first dose given at birth. Other prevention methods include practicing safe s*x using condoms and avoiding the sharing of needles or personal items that may have come into contact with blood. Post-exposure prophylaxis with the vaccine and hepatitis B immune globulin (HBIG) can also prevent infection if administered quickly after exposure.
Treatment: There is no specific treatment for acute hepatitis B; care focuses on managing symptoms with rest, a healthy diet, and fluids. Chronic hepatitis B can be managed with antiviral medications (such as tenofovir or entecavir) to slow viral replication, reduce liver damage, and lower the risk of liver cancer, although treatment is often lifelong.
Global Impact: Hepatitis B is a major global health problem, with an estimated 254 million people living with chronic infection in 2022, leading to approximately 1.1 million deaths annually from liver complications.
The only way to confirm an infection is through a blood test, which is why screening is important for at-risk populations. Early detection and appropriate medical follow-up allow many people with chronic hepatitis B to lead a long and healthy life.
