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| HEPATITIS B |
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About the Disease
Hepatitis B is an inflammation of the liver caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). Hepatitis B spreads through contact with body fluids, including sexual contact. Acute cases of hepatitis B can lead to cirrhosis of the liver or liver cancer.
In 2001, 93 cases of acute hepatitis B were reported in Mississippi. | | |
| AT A GLANCE |
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What it is: Hepatitis B is one of five strains of the hepatitis virus, and is preventable with a vaccine that has been available since 1982. |
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Transmission: You can get hepatitis B through direct contact with the blood or bodily fluids of an infected person. This usually occurs during unprotected sexual contact with an infected person, or by sharing intravenous needles with an infected person. Hepatitis B may also be passed from an infected mother to her baby during birth. Hepatitis B is not spread through food or water, or by casual contact. |
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Symptoms: Symptoms, when present, include jaundice, extreme and chronic fatigue, fever, abdominal pain, appetite loss, nausea and joint pain. About 30% of people infected with hepatitis B, especially children, do not have symptoms. |
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Prevention: The Hepatitis B vaccine is the best protection against the virus.
Practices that increase the risk of hepatitis B include unprotected sexual contact, intravenous drug use, and sharing of personal items that may have blood on them (such as toothbrushes and razors).
Tattoos and body piercings by unlicensed practitioners can expose one to the risk of hepatitis B. Pregnant women should be tested for hepatitis B so that their children can be vaccinated against it within 12 hours of birth if necessary. |
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Testing: A blood test administered by your doctor or your local health clinic can detect hepatitis B infection. |
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Treatment: Hepatitis B can be treated with a drug regime lasting at least several months. Early detection and treatment is important since hepatitis B can cause liver damage and eventual liver failure. | |
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| CONTACT |
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Find out more For further information, contact your local health office, or call our Health Info Hotline at 1-866-HLTHY4U (1-866-458-4948).
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