Hepatitis B. What is hepatitis B? How is HBV spread?

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1 2015 Hepatitis B

2 Hepatitis B What is hepatitis B? Hepatitis B is a liver condition caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). HBV can be chronic, in which case it can lead to liver failure, liver cancer, or cirrhosis (scarring of the liver). Hepatitis B has 2 forms. If it is short-lived, it is acute. If it is long-lasting, it is chronic. How is HBV spread? HBV spreads from person to person through bodily fluids such as blood or semen. Common ways HBV is spread include: Sexual contact: If you or your partner has HBV, the virus can be spread through unprotected sexual contact by blood, saliva, semen, or vaginal secretions. Using protection during sexual contact reduces your risk of spreading the virus. Needles: Sharing needles and syringes poses a high risk for spreading HBV for drug users. It is also of concern for healthcare workers or anyone else who may come in contact with blood. Mother to child: Women infected with HBV can pass it on to their child at birth. 1

3 Acute and chronic hepatitis B Acute hepatitis B lasts less than 6 months. Your immune system is able to get rid of the virus, meaning you can recover in a short period of time. Chronic hepatitis B lasts longer than 6 months. Your immune system is not able to fight off the virus, meaning it may become lifelong, and can lead to other serious illnesses such as: Cirrhosis Liver cancer Liver failure Hepatitis D infection Kidney problems Who is at risk? You have a higher risk of getting infected with hepatitis B if you: Have unprotected sex with more than 1 partner. Have unprotected sex with someone infected with HBV. Have a sexually transmitted infection (STI). Are a man who has unprotected sexual contact with other men. Studies have shown an increase in new HBV infections in this population. Share needles, syringes, spoons, or any other part of drug materials during drug use. Share a household with someone who has chronic hepatitis B. HBV is easily transmitted since it is in all body fluids. It is important not to share any personal items such as toothbrushes or razors. 2

4 Have a job that exposes you to blood. Receive hemodialysis for kidney disease. Travel to regions such as Africa, central and southeast Asia, and eastern Europe. Most adults infected with HBV recover fully regardless of the severity of symptoms, while children are much more likely to have a chronic infection. What are the symptoms? Symptoms usually show up 3 months following infection of HBV. Symptoms vary and can range from mild to severe. Symptoms may include: Abdominal (stomach) pain Dark urine (pee) Fever Joint pain Loss of appetite (not feeling hungry) Nausea or vomiting (feeling sick to your stomach or throwing up) Weakness and fatigue (tiredness) Jaundice (yellowing of the eyes or skin) 3

5 How is HBV diagnosed? A number of blood tests can help diagnose HBV: HBsAg: This test looks for hepatitis B surface antigens or determines if an individual is infected with HBV. A positive test result means you have active HBV and you can pass it on to others. Anti-HBs: This test looks for antibodies to HBV. A positive test means you cannot infect others or get infected yourself due to a vaccine you had, or your own immunity. Anti-HBc: This test finds out if you have an HBV infection. A positive test result means you may have a chronic infection that you can spread to others. A positive result may also mean that you re recovering from acute hepatitis B, or may have slight immunity. Depending on the results of the blood tests, your healthcare provider may do more tests to check how severe the infection is. How is HBV treated? If your infection is acute, your healthcare provider will focus on treating your symptoms. If your infection is chronic, your healthcare provider may recommend: Antiviral medications: these slow the virus and its ability to damage the liver. Liver transplant: if your liver has been severely damaged, you may need a transplant. 4

6 Things you can do to avoid getting HBV The HBV vaccine is intended to achieve HBV immunity. It is given as either 2 or 3 injections depending on which vaccine is prescribed. Everyone should complete the full immunization schedule. Other precautions include: Knowing whether or not your sexual partner has HBV. Using condoms during sex. Not sharing drug needles and other drug materials. Making sure any piercings or tattoos you get are done with sterile (clean) tools. Before travelling, check with your local travel clinic for information on immunization required and any travel advisories for countries you plan to visit. If you already have HBV, there are also precautions you can take to keep the virus from spreading to others. These include: Making sex safer, including telling your sexual partner(s) you have HBV, and using condoms. Not sharing needles, razors, or toothbrushes. Not donating blood or organs. If you are pregnant, tell your healthcare provider right away. If you have any questions, please ask. We are here to help you. 5

7 Notes: Looking for more health information? Contact your local public library for books, videos, magazines, and other resources. For more information go to Capital Health promotes a smoke-free, vape-free, and scent-free environment. Please do not use perfumed products. Thank you! Capital Health, Nova Scotia Prepared by: Timothy Mombourquette NP; Geri Hirsch RN, NP, MSN Hepatology; Carla Burgess RN, NP, MN, Hepatology Designed by: Capital Health Library Services, Patient Education Team Printed by: Dalhousie University Print Centre The information in this brochure is provided for informational and educational purposes only. The information is not intended to be and does not constitute healthcare or medical advice. If you have any questions, please ask your healthcare provider. WC Created January 2015 The information in this pamphlet is to be updated every 3 years.