Hepatitis B (often abbreviated as HBV) is a viral liver infection caused by the Hepatitis B virus. It can cause acute (short-term) illness — or chronic (long-term) infection, which can lead to serious complications including liver damage, liver cirrhosis, or liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma). Globally, hundreds of millions of people live with chronic Hepatitis B.
How Does Hepatitis B Spread? (Transmission & Risk Factors)
Hepatitis B is highly infectious, and spreads when blood, semen, or other body fluids from an infected person get into another persons bloodstream.
Sexual contact without protection, with an infected partner. Sharing needles or syringes (e.g. in drug use or unsafe injections). From a mother to her baby at birth (vertical transmission) or during early childhood. Occupational exposure for healthcare workers — accidental needlestick injuries or contact with contaminated blood.
⚠️ Important: HBV cannot be spread through casual contact, hugging, sharing utensils, or sneezing/coughing.
Also — the younger a person is when infected, the higher the risk of developing chronic Hepatitis B.
Recognizing the Silent Threat: Symptoms & Why Screening Matters
One of the biggest challenges with Hepatitis B is that many people dont show any symptoms, especially during acute infection — and even chronic infection can remain silent for decades.
Because asymptomatic cases are common, screening (via blood tests for HBV markers) is crucial — particularly for people with risk factors, or those born before widespread vaccination.
Prevention & Protection: The Power of the Hepatitis B Vaccine
The good news — Hepatitis B is preventable. A safe and effective Hepatitis B vaccine has been available for decades and remains the cornerstone of HBV prevention
For newborns: Ideally, the first dose is given within 24 hours of birth, followed by additional doses in the vaccination schedule. For older kids, adolescents, and adults who missed early vaccination — getting vaccinated is still strongly recommended, especially for those at risk (healthcare workers, people with multiple sexual partners, people with exposure risks).
Avoid sharing needles or syringes; use sterile equipment. Practice safe sex (use condoms if partners HBV status is unknown). Ensure safe blood transfusions and proper sterilization in medical or piercing/tattoo settings.
Living with Chronic Hepatitis B — Diagnosis, Monitoring & Treatment
If someone is diagnosed with chronic HBV infection, regular monitoring is vital. Chronic Hepatitis B doesnt always cause symptoms early, but over time it can silently damage the liver.
While there is currently no cure that eliminates HBV from every person, there are effective antiviral treatments that suppress the virus, reduce liver inflammation, and lower the risk of complications such as cirrhosis or liver cancer.
Hepatitis B — Why Awareness Is Critical
Although awareness about many health conditions has improved, knowledge about Hepatitis B remains limited in many parts of India. For instance, a recent study in a reputed hospital found that only about 25% of respondents had adequate understanding of HBV transmission, effects, and vaccination importance.
Estimates suggest that a significant portion of the population could be living with chronic HBV infection without knowing it — underscoring the need for wider screening, public health education, and improved vaccination coverage.
Conclusion
Hepatitis B remains a major public health challenge, but also one of the most preventable and manageable viral infections — thanks to safe vaccines and effective medical care. Whether you are a parent, healthcare worker, or just someone wanting to stay informed — understanding HBV, protecting yourself, and encouraging others to get tested or vaccinated can make a real difference.
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