Hepatitis B is a viral infection that attacks the liver, leading to inflammation and, in severe cases, liver damage, cirrhosis (liver scarring), or liver cancer.
🦠 How It Spreads
The virus spreads through contact with infected body fluids, such as:
- Blood (e.g., sharing needles, razors, or through blood transfusions)
- Sexual contact with an infected person
- From mother to baby during childbirth
- Unsterilized medical instruments or tattoos
It is not spread by casual contact (hugging, shaking hands, sharing food, etc.).
⚠️ Types
- Acute Hepatitis B — short-term infection (up to 6 months).
Some people recover completely. - Chronic Hepatitis B — long-term infection (lasting over 6 months).
Can cause liver damage, liver failure, or cancer if untreated.
🤒 Common Symptoms
Sometimes, there are no symptoms — but when they appear, they may include:
- Fever
- Fatigue or weakness
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea or vomiting
- Abdominal (stomach) pain
- Dark urine
- Yellowing of eyes or skin (jaundice)
- Joint pain
💉 Prevention
The Hepatitis B vaccine is the best protection.
- It’s usually given in 3 doses (at birth, after 1 month, and after 6 months).
- Safe and effective for children and adults.
Also:
- Avoid sharing needles or razors
- Make sure blood or instruments are sterilized before medical or tattoo procedures
💊 Treatment
- Acute Hepatitis B: Often clears up on its own — rest, fluids, and supportive care.
- Chronic Hepatitis B: Needs regular medical follow-up.
Treatments include antiviral medicines like Tenofovir or Entecavir, which help slow the virus and protect the liver.