Also known as: Hepatitis B Virus Infection
Hepatitis B is a viral infection that attacks the liver, causing both acute and chronic disease. It spreads through blood and body fluids and is preventable with vaccination.
Approximately 296 million people worldwide live with chronic hepatitis B, causing nearly 900,000 deaths annually from cirrhosis and liver cancer. It is 50-100 times more infectious than HIV.
Acute infection in adults resolves spontaneously in 95% of cases. However, infection acquired at birth or in early childhood becomes chronic in 90% of cases, highlighting the importance of birth-dose vaccination.
Chronic hepatitis B can be managed with antiviral therapy (tenofovir, entecavir) that suppresses viral replication and prevents liver damage, though a true cure remains elusive.
People with Hepatitis B often experience the following symptoms.
Yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes from bilirubin accumulation due to liver inflammation.
Bilirubin excreted in urine causes characteristic dark brown colour.
Right upper abdominal pain from hepatic inflammation and swelling.
Many chronic carriers have no symptoms for decades while the virus slowly damages the liver.
Certain factors may increase your likelihood of developing Hepatitis B.
Common approaches to managing hepatitis b. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized treatment.
Tenofovir or entecavir suppress viral replication to prevent liver damage. Treatment may be lifelong.
Finite course (48 weeks) that can achieve functional cure (HBsAg loss) in a subset of patients.
Regular ultrasound and AFP screening every 6 months for chronic carriers at risk of hepatocellular carcinoma.
For end-stage liver disease or hepatocellular carcinoma, with post-transplant antiviral prophylaxis.
HBsAg (surface antigen) confirms current infection. Anti-HBs confirms immunity. HBeAg and HBV DNA quantify viral activity. Liver function tests and FibroScan assess liver damage.
See a doctor if you develop yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, persistent nausea, or severe fatigue, especially if you have risk factors for hepatitis B.
Steps that may help reduce the risk of developing or worsening hepatitis b.
Vaccination (highly effective, 3-dose series)
Birth-dose vaccination in endemic areas
Safe injection practices
Screening of blood products
If left untreated or poorly managed, hepatitis b may lead to:
True cure (complete viral elimination) is rare. Antiviral therapy effectively controls the virus and prevents complications.
Casual contact does not transmit HBV. Transmission requires blood, sexual contact, or mother-to-child during birth.
Yes. The hepatitis B vaccine is safe, highly effective, and recommended for everyone. It is part of routine childhood immunisation.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.