Hepatitis B

What exactly is hepatitis B?

Hepatitis B is a viral infection that affects the liver. The virus is transmitted through blood or other bodily fluids, for example through unprotected sexual contact, sharing needles, or from mother to child during childbirth. If your test result shows that you have hepatitis B, this means that your body has been infected with the hepatitis B virus.

How does hepatitis B usually progress?

After infection with the hepatitis B virus, you can develop an acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term) infection. In many people, the body clears the virus on its own within a few months. However, sometimes the virus remains in the body and the infection becomes chronic. This can cause liver damage over the long term.

What are the symptoms of hepatitis B?

Many people do not notice a hepatitis B infection at first. When symptoms do occur, they can resemble flu: fatigue, muscle aches, fever, nausea and abdominal pain. Sometimes the skin or whites of the eyes become yellow (jaundice), and the urine may become darker. Not everyone develops these symptoms.

What are the typical symptoms of hepatitis B?

Typical symptoms include fatigue, reduced appetite, nausea, pain in the upper right side of the abdomen (where the liver is located), jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), dark urine and sometimes itching. With a chronic infection, you may have few or no symptoms for a long time, while the liver can still gradually become damaged.

How can you contract hepatitis B?

You can contract hepatitis B through contact with blood or other bodily fluids from someone who carries the virus. This can occur through unprotected sexual contact, sharing needles (for example when injecting drugs), sharing razors or toothbrushes, or during medical procedures involving non-sterile equipment. The virus can also be transmitted from mother to child during childbirth.

How common is hepatitis B?

In the Netherlands, hepatitis B is less common than in some other parts of the world, but it remains an important infectious disease. Hundreds of new cases are reported each year. Worldwide, hundreds of millions of people carry the virus.

Are there specific risk groups for hepatitis B?

Yes, certain groups have a higher risk of hepatitis B. These include people who have unprotected sexual contact with multiple partners, people who inject drugs and share needles, people who live in or were born in countries where hepatitis B is common, and babies born to mothers who have hepatitis B.

How can you prevent hepatitis B?

The best way to prevent hepatitis B is to get vaccinated. A safe and effective vaccine is available. It is also important to practise safer sex (using condoms), avoid sharing needles or sharp objects, and ensure good hygiene during medical and cosmetic procedures.

Which hygiene or behavioural measures reduce the risk of hepatitis B?

Always use a condom during sex if you are not sure whether your partner has hepatitis B. Do not share needles, razors or toothbrushes with others. Make sure that medical or cosmetic procedures, such as tattoos or piercings, are performed using clean, sterile equipment.

How can you prevent further transmission if you already have hepatitis B?

If you have hepatitis B, it is important to avoid transmitting the virus to others. Do not share needles, razors or toothbrushes. Inform your sexual partners and use condoms. Encourage household members and people with whom you have close contact to get tested and, if appropriate, vaccinated. Follow your doctor’s advice.

Can hepatitis B be treated, and if so, how?

Acute hepatitis B usually clears on its own without treatment. For chronic hepatitis B, medications are available that can suppress the virus and help prevent liver damage. Not everyone with chronic hepatitis B needs medication immediately, but regular medical monitoring is important. Discuss with your doctor what is most appropriate for your situation.

This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice from a doctor. If your symptoms persist or you are concerned, always contact your doctor.