According to the CDC, Hepatitis B is a liver infection caused by the Hepatitis B virus (HBV). Hepatitis B is transmitted when blood, semen, or another body fluid from a person infected with the Hepatitis B virus enters the body of someone who is not infected.
This can happen through sexual contact; sharing needles, syringes, or other drug-injection equipment; or from mother to baby at birth. For some people, hepatitis B is an acute, or short-term, illness but for others, it can become a long-term, chronic infection.
Risk for chronic infection is related to age at infection: approximately 90% of infected infants become chronically infected, compared with 2%–6% of adults. Chronic Hepatitis B can lead to serious health issues, like cirrhosis or liver cancer. The best way to prevent Hepatitis B is by getting vaccinated.
Treatment
HBV is confirmed by a blood test and if there is liver damage, a liver biopsy is performed. Although there is no cure for HBV, here at HF Healthcare, we provide products to help treat HBV and we can create a manageable care plan that works in concert with your physician and insurance payer. We are here to guide you to a healthy future! You can find more information about our services here.
Prevention & Vaccination
As stated by the NHF, steps to help prevent the spread of HBV include not sharing IV needles, razors or toothbrushes; and wearing latex gloves when handling blood products. The CDC recommends screening pregnant women and vaccinating those at high risk.
The HBV vaccine is given in three doses. The CDC recommends that babies receive the first dose of the series during the first week after birth. The second dose should be given one month later; the last should be given six months later.
NHF’s Medical and Scientific Advisory Council (MASAC) recommends that all people with bleeding disorders be vaccinated against HBV, unless they have proof of immunity. Read the MASAC recommendation on hepatitis A and B vaccinations.