Thanh, 37, discovered he had hepatitis B during a blood donation drive in early 2024. He quietly sought treatment and took medication, but the infection spread to his wife. Due to late detection, her case became chronic, significantly impacting their family life.

In another case, Huong, 30, from Thanh Hoa, rushed to get the hepatitis B vaccine after her husband confessed his diagnosis. However, blood tests revealed she was already infected and couldn't receive the vaccine. She is now being monitored for acute hepatitis B, taking antiviral medication, and undergoing regular checkups to prevent the disease from becoming chronic.

One of the ways hepatitis B is transmitted is through sexual contact, impacting family members, so proactive prevention is crucial. Photo: Vecteezy

One of the ways hepatitis B is transmitted is through sexual contact, impacting family members, so proactive prevention is crucial. Photo: Vecteezy

According to Dr. Nguyen Van Quang, Medical Manager at VNVC Vaccination System, hepatitis B is an infectious disease primarily transmitted through blood, from mother to child, and through sexual contact. Sharing items that may be contaminated with the blood of an infected person, such as razors or toothbrushes, can also transmit the disease.

Hepatitis B often progresses silently without typical symptoms in the early stages, leading many to remain unaware of their infection. By the time symptoms appear, the disease is often advanced and can lead to cirrhosis or liver cancer.

Currently, there is no cure for hepatitis B. Patients require antiviral medication and regular checkups. Discontinuing treatment can lead to uncontrolled disease progression.

A young man receives the hepatitis B vaccine at VNVC Vaccination System. Photo: Dieu Thuan

A young man receives the hepatitis B vaccine at VNVC Vaccination System. Photo: Dieu Thuan

Vaccination for both children and adults is the most effective preventive measure. Two single hepatitis B vaccines and a combined vaccine that also protects against hepatitis A are currently available in Vietnam.

Adults require three doses within 6 months, with hepatitis B testing before vaccination and booster shots when antibody levels decrease. Children should receive their first dose within 24 hours of birth, followed by subsequent doses according to the recommended schedule for vaccines containing the hepatitis B component, such as the 5-in-1 or 6-in-1 vaccines.

In addition to vaccination, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, managing stress, and avoiding unsafe sex are crucial. Using personal care items and avoiding those shared with others, especially those that could cause bleeding, are also important preventive measures.

Dieu Thao

*Names have been changed.