Answer:

Hepatitis B is an infection caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). In its chronic stage, it can lead to cirrhosis, liver failure, and liver cancer. There's no need to worry about casual contact like shaking hands or hugging. The virus isn't spread through coughing, sneezing, sharing utensils, playing together, or eating food prepared by someone with hepatitis B.

HBV is transmitted through:

Blood: Sharing needles, receiving transfusions of infected blood or blood products, or using improperly sterilized medical equipment. Transmission can also occur through unsanitary tattooing, piercing, manicures, medical procedures, or sharing personal items like razors and toothbrushes with an infected person.

Doctor Thanh advises a patient. Illustrative photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Doctor Thanh advises a patient. Illustrative photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Mother-to-child: Transmission rates are low if the mother contracts the virus during the thu nhat trimester. The risk increases during the thu hai and thu ba trimesters, potentially reaching 90% without preventative measures after birth.

Sexual contact: Hepatitis B can be transmitted through heterosexual or homosexual intercourse due to contact with infected semen, vaginal fluids, or blood.

It's recommended to consult a doctor and undergo testing. Blood tests can determine if you have hepatitis B. Your doctor may also request liver function tests, ultrasounds, or MRI/CT scans to assess your liver's condition and the extent of any damage or fibrosis. This information helps them develop an effective treatment plan.

Doctor Hoang Dinh Thanh

Center for Endoscopy and Minimally Invasive Surgery

Tam Anh General Hospital, TP HCM