What is Hepatitis B?
Hepatitis B is a viral infection that attacks the liver. While some people recover completely, others develop a long-term (chronic) infection that can lead to serious health problems, including liver cirrhosis or liver cancer.
One of the biggest challenges with Hepatitis B is that many people don’t experience symptoms, especially in the early stages. This is why it’s often called a “silent infection.” The only way to know if you’re infected is through a blood test.
How Is Hepatitis B Spread?
Hepatitis B is spread through contact with infected blood and certain bodily fluids. It can be transmitted through:
- Unprotected vaginal, anal, or oral sex
- Sharing needles or syringes
- Unsterilized tattoo or piercing equipment
- From a pregnant person to their baby during childbirth
It is not spread through casual contact like hugging, sharing food, or coughing.
What Are the Symptoms?
When symptoms do occur, they may include:
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea or vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Dark urine
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
Many people have no symptoms, making testing an important part of protecting your health.
How Can You Prevent Hepatitis B?
The most effective way to prevent Hepatitis B is by getting vaccinated. You can also reduce your risk by:
- Using condoms or dental dams during sexual activity to help reduce exposure to infected bodily fluids.
- Never sharing needles or syringes.
- Choosing licensed tattoo and piercing studios that use sterile equipment.
- Getting tested if you think you’ve been exposed or are at higher risk.
While condoms and dental dams cannot eliminate the risk entirely, they are effective tools for reducing the transmission of Hepatitis B and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Protect Your Health
Hepatitis B is preventable, and early detection makes a difference. Vaccination, safer sex practices, and regular testing can help protect both you and your partners. If you think you may be at risk, speak with a healthcare provider about getting tested and vaccinated.
References
- Hepatitis B Foundation. (n.d.). What is hepatitis B? https://www.hepb.org/what-is-hepatitis-b/
- Mayo Clinic. (2024). Hepatitis B: Symptoms and causes. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hepatitis-b/symptoms-causes/syc-20366802
- Public Health Agency of Canada. (2024). Hepatitis B. https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/hepatitis-b.html
- World Health Organization. (2024). Hepatitis B. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/hepatitis-b