WHERE CAN YOU FIND HBV?

The hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a potentially life-threatening liver infection that can cause chronic liver disease and liver cancer. HBV is spread through contact with infected blood or bodily fluids, and it can be found in a variety of places, including:

BLOOD:

• Blood transfusions: HBV can be transmitted through blood transfusions, although the risk is very low in developed countries where blood is screened for HBV.
• Needle sharing: HBV can be transmitted through sharing needles or other drug paraphernalia with someone who is infected.
• Accidental needlesticks: HBV can be transmitted through accidental needlesticks, such as those that occur in healthcare settings.

BODY FLUIDS:

• Saliva: HBV can be found in saliva, although the risk of transmission through kissing or sharing utensils is low.
• Semen: HBV can be found in semen, and it can be transmitted through unprotected sex with an infected person.
• Vaginal fluids: HBV can be found in vaginal fluids, and it can be transmitted through unprotected sex with an infected person.
• Breast milk: HBV can be found in breast milk, but the risk of transmission to a baby is low if the mother is vaccinated against HBV.

SURFACES:

• Surfaces contaminated with blood or body fluids: HBV can survive on surfaces for up to 7 days, so it is possible to become infected by touching a surface that has been contaminated with infected blood or body fluids.
• Shared personal items: HBV can be transmitted through sharing personal items, such as razors or toothbrushes, with someone who is infected.

OTHER:

• Mother-to-child transmission: HBV can be transmitted from an infected mother to her baby during pregnancy, labor, or delivery.
• Sexual contact: HBV can be transmitted through unprotected sex with an infected person.
• Tattooing or piercing: HBV can be transmitted through tattooing or piercing with unsterile equipment.

WHO IS MOST AT RISK FOR HBV INFECTION?

Anyone can become infected with HBV, but some people are at higher risk, including:

• People who have unprotected sex with multiple partners
• People who inject drugs
• People who have tattoos or piercings
• People who travel to areas where HBV is common
• People with weakened immune systems
• Newborns of mothers who are infected with HBV

HOW CAN I PROTECT MYSELF FROM HBV?

There are a number of things you can do to protect yourself from HBV infection, including:

• Get vaccinated against HBV. The HBV vaccine is safe and effective, and it is recommended for all adults and children.
• Use condoms during sex. Condoms can help to prevent the spread of HBV through sexual contact.
• Don't share needles or other drug paraphernalia. Sharing needles can spread HBV and other bloodborne infections.
• Get tested for HBV if you are at risk. If you think you may have been exposed to HBV, talk to your doctor about getting tested.
• Follow safe hygiene practices. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, and avoid touching your mouth, nose, or eyes with unwashed hands.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the symptoms of HBV?

• Most people with HBV do not have any symptoms. However, some people may experience fatigue, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dark urine, joint pain, and loss of appetite.

2. How is HBV diagnosed?

• HBV is diagnosed with a blood test.

3. Is there a cure for HBV?

• There is no cure for HBV, but there are treatments that can help to slow the progression of the disease.

4. How can I prevent HBV from spreading to others?

• You can prevent HBV from spreading to others by getting vaccinated, using condoms during sex, not sharing needles or other drug paraphernalia, and following safe hygiene practices.

5. Where can I find more information about HBV?

• You can find more information about HBV from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) or the World Health Organization (WHO).