What is Hepatitis B?
Hepatitis B is a viral infection caused by the Hepatitis B virus (HBV), which leads to inflammation of the liver. It can cause both acute and chronic liver disease. Hepatitis B is a major global health problem, with millions of people infected worldwide. Chronic Hepatitis B can lead to serious health issues such as liver cirrhosis and liver cancer.
In Singapore, Hepatitis B is also a significant health concern, with ongoing public health initiatives to control its spread through vaccination and awareness campaigns.
FAQ on Hepatitis B
How is Hepatitis B transmitted?
Hepatitis B is primarily transmitted through contact with infectious body fluids. Key points of transmission include:
- Blood: Sharing needles, syringes, or other drug-injection equipment; blood transfusions (less common due to screening); and direct contact with open sores or blood from an infected person.
- Sexual Contact: Unprotected sex with an infected person can transmit the virus through semen, vaginal fluids, or blood.
- Mother-to-Child: An infected mother can transmit the virus to her baby during childbirth. This is a common mode of transmission in regions with high Hepatitis B prevalence.
- Sharing Personal Items: Items such as razors or toothbrushes that may be contaminated with an infected person's blood.
What are the symptoms of Hepatitis B infections?
Symptoms of Hepatitis B can range from mild to severe and typically appear 45 to 160 days after exposure to the virus. Common symptoms include:
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea and vomiting
- Abdominal pain, especially near the liver
- Dark urine
- Clay-colored stool
- Joint pain
- Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)
What are the complications of untreated Hepatitis B?
If left untreated, Hepatitis B can lead to serious health complications, including:
- Chronic Hepatitis B (lasting more than six months)
- Liver cirrhosis (scarring of the liver)
- Liver failure
- Liver cancer
- Increased risk of other liver-related diseases
How is Hepatitis B diagnosed?
Hepatitis B is diagnosed through blood tests that detect the presence of the virus or antibodies against it. Common tests include:
- HBsAg (Hepatitis B surface antigen): Indicates an active infection.
- Anti-HBs (Hepatitis B surface antibody): Indicates immunity from past infection or vaccination.
- Anti-HBc (Hepatitis B core antibody): Indicates a past or ongoing infection.
- Liver Function Tests: To assess liver damage.
How is Hepatitis B treated?
Treatment varies depending on whether the infection is acute or chronic:
- Acute Hepatitis B: There is no specific treatment; supportive care is provided to relieve symptoms.
- Chronic Hepatitis B: Antiviral medications can help reduce the virus's ability to replicate and decrease liver damage. Regular monitoring by a healthcare provider is essential.
Can Hepatitis B be prevented?
Hepatitis B can be prevented through various methods:
- Vaccination: The Hepatitis B vaccine is highly effective and is recommended for all infants, unvaccinated children, and adults at risk.
- Safe Practices: Avoid sharing needles, razors, or toothbrushes; ensure safe blood transfusions; and practice safe sex by using condoms.
- Mother-to-Child Transmission Prevention: Pregnant women should be tested for Hepatitis B, and newborns of infected mothers should receive the Hepatitis B vaccine and hepatitis B immune globulin (HBIG) at birth.
