What is hepatitis B infection ?
It is the type of inflammation of liver caused by hepatitis B virus. It is the most common cause of chronic hepatitis.
Incidence of Hepatitis-B in Bangladesh.
@ About 4%-7% of population have hepatitis B infection.
@ About 3.5% of pregnant mothers in Bangladesh are carrying the hepatitis B virus. Those who have HbeAg.
about 90% of them will transmit the virus to their offspring.
Symptoms of Hepatitis B.
There may be no symptoms in many patients.
Non-specific symptoms like tiredness, aches, nausea and loss of appetite.
Manifestations of chronic hepatitis, liver cirrhosis & liver cancer in advanced stage.
How hepatitis B spreads.
@ From infected mothers to the fetus and child. (vertical transmission)
@ Transfusion of unscreened blood & blood product,
@ Parental drug abuse.
@ Medical & dental treatment due to use of unsterile equipments and accidental injuries.
@ Saliva and other body fluids.
@ Unprotected homosexuals & heterosexuals.
How to prevent it:
Personal measures :
@ Use of disposable syringe & needles, transfuse screened blood, not to share utensils and use safe sex.
@ Vaccination (Hepatitis B vaccine) in risk groups and family members of Hepatitis B
@ Universal childhood vaccination.
Babies born to HBsAg positive mothers- first dose vaccination within 24 hours of birth along with Hepatiitis B immunoglobulin.(HBIG)
Vaccination of Surgical, medical & dental stuff.
@ Hospital & laboratory staff who come in contact with blood and blood products frequently.
Passive immunization :
Hepatitis B immunoglobulin (HBIG)- after exposure at high risk personnals or sources.
Some advise :
@ Don’t receive unscreened blood.
@ Don’t donate blood, organ if you are Hepatitis-B positive.
@ Don’t use any one’s toothbrush, razor, scissors or other personal items.
@ Don’t make tattoos with unclean materials.
@ Take precautions against needle stick (prick) injury and blood spillage in medical, surgical, dental and nursing practice.
@ Use disposable blades in private haircutting saloon instead of traditional razor.
@ Practice safe sex.
@ The incidence is many times than that of AIDS.
If you remain infected more than 6 months regular monitoring is needed for your liver functions & viral status.
Treatment: Consult liver specialist (hepatologist) for evaluation and treatment
©2013 Liver Foundation of Bangladesh
