What is hepatitis B?
Hepatitis B is a liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). HBV is a highly contagious virus that can be spread through contact with infected blood, semen, or vaginal fluids. It can also be transmitted from mother to baby during birth.
There are two types of hepatitis B infection: acute and chronic. Acute hepatitis B is a short-term infection that usually goes away on its own within 6 months. Chronic hepatitis B is a long-term infection that can last for many years. Chronic hepatitis B can cause serious liver damage, including cirrhosis, liver failure, and liver cancer.
symptoms of hepatitis B:
- Fatigue.
- Loss of appetite.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Abdominal pain.
- Dark urine.
- Clay-colored bowel movements.
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes).
- Swelling in the legs and feet.
How hepatitis B is been transmitted:
HBV can be spread through contact with infected blood, semen, or vaginal fluids. This can happen through:
- Sexual contact with an infected person.
- Sharing needles, syringes, or other drug-injection equipment.
- Getting a tattoo or piercing with unsterile equipment.
- Receiving a blood transfusion or organ transplant from an infected person.
- Contact with open sores or wounds on an infected person.
- Mother-to-baby transmission during birth.
Prevention of hepatitis B:
There is a safe and effective vaccine that can protect against hepatitis B. The vaccine is usually given to infants shortly after birth, but it can also be given to adults and older children. Other ways to prevent hepatitis B include:
- Practicing safe sex, including using condoms.
- Avoiding contact with other people's blood and body fluids.
- Getting tattoos and piercings from reputable establishments that use sterile equipment.
- Getting tested for hepatitis B if you are pregnant, sexually active, or a healthcare worker.
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