Hepatitis refers to an inflammatory condition of the liver. It is commonly the result of infection with the hepatitis virus although there are other possible causes of hepatitis such as alcohol or even medications.

There are five major known strains of the hepatitis virus namely Hapatitis A, B, C, D and E. While they all cause liver disease of varying severity, they differ in important ways including modes of transmission and prevention. However, Hepatitis B and C are the most virulent strains because chronic infections are known to cause liver cirrhosis and liver cancer^*. In this article, we focus on the mode of transmission, symptoms and prevention of  Hepatitis B.

Mode of Transmission

Hepatitis B Virus infection could be easily contracted through:

1. Contact with blood or wound exudate of an infected individual (high infectivity)
2. Semen, vaginal fluid, and saliva of an already infected person (moderate infectivity)
3. Urine, feces, sweat, tears, or breast milk of someone infected with the virus (low infectivity)

Symptoms of Hepatitis B Infection

Infection with hepatitis B virus any not present with any symptoms. Otherwise, infected individuals may present with non-specific symptoms such as:

1. Extreme Fatigue
2. Fever
3. Nausea and vomiting
4. Abdominal pain
5. Pale stool
6. Weight loss
7. Dark Urine
8. Yellow discoloration of the eyes and skin (Jaundice)

Prevention of Hepatitis B Infection

Hepatitis B virus is one of the infections that is preventable through vaccination. So, it is important to get vaccinated to avoid infection. Also, sharing of sharps should be avoided as well as abstinence or use of condoms during sexual activity.

Hepatitis B infection can be acute (if it lasts for less than six months) or chronic (if it lasts more than six months). Chronic hepatitis B increases your risk of developing liver failure, liver cancer or cirrhosis.