Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) is a major global health concern, affecting millions of people worldwide.
The infection is most widely transmitted from the infected mother to a child, with infected blood and body fluids.
Pregnant women, adolescents, and all adults at high risk of chronic infection are recommended to be screened for hepatitis B infection.
It is a viral infection that primarily targets the liver, potentially leading to chronic disease, liver cirrhosis, and even liver cancer. Understanding HBV, its transmission, prevention, and treatment is essential in controlling its spread and impact.
There are five main types of hepatitis, each caused by a different virus:
Hepatitis A (HAV) – Usually spread through contaminated food or water; generally acute and self-limiting.
Hepatitis B (HBV) – Transmitted through infected bodily fluids, including blood, sexual contact, and from mother to child at birth; can be acute or chronic.
Hepatitis C (HCV) – Primarily spread through blood-to-blood contact, often due to sharing needles; can lead to chronic liver disease.
Hepatitis D (HDV) – A rare type that only occurs in people already infected with HBV; worsens HBV-related liver disease.
Hepatitis E (HEV) – Usually transmitted through contaminated drinking water; typically causes acute infection, but can be severe in pregnant women
Transmission
The primary modes of transmission include:
Mother-to-child transmission during childbirth.
Unprotected sexual contact with an infected person.
Sharing needles or syringes.
Accidental exposure to infected blood (e.g., healthcare workers).
Use of contaminated medical equipment.
Through contaminated drinking water.
Symptoms of HBV Infection
Many individuals infected with HBV do not exhibit symptoms in the early stages.
However, when symptoms occur, you should seek medical attention and they may include:
Fatigue.
Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes).
Dark urine.
Abdominal pain.
Loss of appetite.
Nausea and vomiting.
Chronic HBV infection can remain asymptomatic for years, eventually leading to severe liver complications.
Prevention and Vaccination
The most effective way to prevent HBV infection is through vaccination. The hepatitis B vaccine is safe, highly effective, and recommended for all infants at birth, as well as for unvaccinated adults at risk.
Additional preventive measures include:
Practicing safe sex.
Avoiding sharing needles and personal hygiene items.
Ensuring proper sterilization of medical equipment.
Screening blood donations for HBV.
Diagnosis and Treatment
HBV infection is diagnosed through blood tests that detect viral markers and liver function. While acute HBV infections usually resolve on their own, chronic HBV requires medical intervention.
Treatment options include antiviral medications to suppress the virus and reduce liver damage. In severe cases, a liver transplant may be necessary.
Conclusion
Hepatitis B remains a major public health issue that requires global efforts for prevention, early detection, and treatment.
Widespread vaccination, public awareness, and proper medical care can significantly reduce the burden of HBV and save millions of lives.
Individuals should take proactive steps to protect themselves and others from this silent but dangerous virus.
Author: Bongo Charles
Medical Laboratory Technician
References:
CDC 2020a (Malagnino et al. 2018, (de Almeida et al. 2015; Terrault et al. 2018;
Than et al. 2019). CDC 2020b(WHO 2019a Van Damme 2016;
WHO 2017a CDC 2020c). Dynavax 2018; CDC 2020c).
Terrault NA, Lok ASF, McMahon BJ, Chang KM, Hwang JP, Jonas MM, Brown RS Jr, Bzowej NH, Wong JB. Update on prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of chronic hepatitis B: AASLD 2018 hepatitis B guidance. Hepatology. 2018. Apr;67(4):1560–1599. 10.1002/hep.29800 [DOIPubMed]
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