Hepatitis B
The term ‘hepatitis’ means inflammation of the liver. While other hepatitis viruses include hepatitis A, C, D, E, F and G; hepatitis A, B and C are more common. A vaccine is available for hepatitis B.
For more information about hepatitis viruses visit www.hepatitisaustralia.com
Cause
Hepatitis B is caused by the hepatitis B virus.
Symptoms
Many people infected with the virus show no symptoms of infection, although others may experience jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), fever, loss of appetite, tiredness and pains in the joints soon after infection. Most people recover from hepatitis B, but the long-term effect of infection is often cirrhosis (scarring of the liver) and liver cancer.
How is it transmitted?
Hepatitis B lives in blood, semen and vaginal fluids and is transmitted by unprotected anal, vaginal and oral sexual activity. It can also be passed on through sharing needles and syringes and the use of non-sterile tattooing and body piercing equipment. A woman with hepatitis B can pass the virus onto her baby during birth.
How do I know if I have it?
Hepatitis B is detected by a blood test. As the test can give a negative result for up to three months after the initial infection, if there is a chance you have been infected the test will need to be repeated three months later.
Treatment/Management
There is no cure for hepatitis B, however a vaccine is available. If you are exposed to the virus, seeking treatment promptly can help prevent infection.
Prevention
Always use condoms and dams to reduce the risk of contracting hepatitis B. Never share needles, other injecting equipment or personal items such as razors or toothbrushes as they can carry traces of infected blood. If getting a tattoo or body piercing make sure all equipment has been sterilised, and don’t share other people’s pierced earrings or body jewellery. There is a vaccine available to prevent hepatitis B. See a doctor for more information.
For more information about hepatitis B contact the Sexual Health Helpline on
9227 6178 or 1800 198 205 (country callers) or email.
Practising safe sex reduces the risk of contracting HIV and other sexually transmissible infections (STIs).
Page last updated Fri, 09 Jun 2006 15:55