What disease does the hepatitis B vaccine protect against ?

The hepatitis B vaccine provides protection against hepatitis B. This serious liver disease is caused by the hepatitis B virus HBV. It can lead to both chronic and acute diseases. There is no cure for hepatitis B but there is a vaccine available to prevent infection.

How do I get the  HBV ?

You can get the virus if you come into contact with the blood and bodily fluids ( saliva, semen or vaginal fluids ) of an infected person. HBV then enters the liver, invade liver cells and start to multiply which leads to liver inflammation.

Other ways include the following :

 
• from mother to child during childbirth
• using needles and syringes contaminated with infected blood
• accidental needle sticks especially for healthcare workers

Am I susceptible to this infection ?

You are at risk of getting this disease if you  :

 
•  are born to a mother with the virus
•  have been on long term dialysis
• have unprotected sex with someone infected with the virus
• share personal items such as razor and tooth brush
• share needles during intravenous (IV) drug use
• work with blood such people in the health care field
• have sexually transmitted infections such as gonorrhea or chlamydia
• travel to areas with high incidence of the disease

Would I show any symptoms when I get hepatitis B ?

You may remain asymptomatic in the beginning. When you start showing symptoms they will include

 
• abdominal pain
• low grade fever
• jaundice
• nausea and vomiting
• unexplained fatigue
• light colored stool
• loss of apetite
• dark urine

What are my treatment options ?

You may not need any treatment with acute hepatitis B unless it is severe. You will just be monitored using blood test and  be advised to  get plenty of rest, drink enough fluids and eat healthy.

If your case is chronic , you have the following options

 
• antiviral drugs  to fight the virus  and reduce  the risk of cirrhosis and liver cancer.
• liver transplant in the case of a severely damaged liver

How dangerous is hepatitis B ?

Hepatitis B can lead to complications such as

 
• cirhossis
• liver cancer
• liver failure
• hepatitis D infection
• problems with the kidney

How can I prevent this serious liver infection ?

The hepatitis B vaccine (HBV) protects you against this disease. It is usually given in three doses and given at the following  ages

 
• At birth
• Between 1 and 2 months
• Between 6 and 18 months

 
In the united states  pregnant women are screen for hepatitis B. If they are positive, their babies baby would get an injection of hepatitis B immune globulin (HBIG), as well as the hepatitis B vaccine. This is  to provide short-term protection within 12 hours of birth.

 
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