What is hepatitis B? 

Hepatitis B is a viral liver disease caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV).  Hepatitis B is more severe than hepatitis A and can cause lifelong infection, cancer, scarring, liver failure, and death.  The virus is spread from person to person through contact with semen, vaginal secretions, saliva, open sores, and breast milk.

What are the symptoms of hepatitis B?

Only about 30% of people with hepatitis B show signs or symptoms of infection.  Similarly to hepatitis A, children are less likely to show any signs than adults.  If symptoms appear, they most likely take the form of loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, fatigue or jaundice (yellowing of the skin and white part of the eyes, accompanied by dark urine and clay-colored stools.)  

Most symptomatic people can fight off the infection within a few months, and they develop an immunity that keeps them from getting hepatitis B during the rest of their lives. Some can't get rid of HBV, and, after being infected for six months, they become "carriers." Carriers can transmit the virus to others through unprotected sex, deep kissing or sharing food or drinks. Being a carrier also means that your liver may be more prone to injury.

The HBV infection eventually leaves some carriers, but for other carriers, it becomes chronic. Chronic hepatitus B causes an unending liver infection that may lead to cirrhosis (hardening of the liver, causes liver tissue to scar and stop working.)

If you are carrying the virus you should not donate blood, plasma, body organs, tissue or sperm. Tell your doctor, dentist, and sex partner that you are a hepatitis B carrier.

Who is most likely to become infected with hepatitis B?

The CDC has reported the number of people with HBV has decreased from 200,000 a year to 73,000 per year since the 1980s.  The decrease in numbers is encouraging, but certain groups remain at risk.

Individuals most likely to be exposed to HBV-individuals with multiple sex partners, homosexual men, health care workers, public health/safety workers, and those who frequent unsanitary tattoo parlors-should take extra precautions.

How common is hepatitis B in Montgomery County?

The Montgomery County Health Department reported 10 cases of HBV in the county in 2003 and 15 cases in 2004. The number increased dramatically in 2005, when there were 41 cases reported.

How is hepatitis B treated? 

Within two weeks of exposure to hepatitis B, the HBV vaccine should be given along with a hepatitis immune globulin.  Physicians also suggest bed rest and plenty of food and liquids.  Those infected with any kind of hepatitis conditions should stay away from alcohol and acetaminophen (Tylenol), substances as they could increase the chances of liver damage. 

In more advanced active cases of hepatitis B, physicians use a combination of stronger medications.  Some of these drugs may include Interferon, Epivir, Hepsera, and Baraclude.  

How can I protect myself from hepatitis B?

The best way to prevent a hepatitis B infection is to be vaccinated.  The greatest decline in numbers of hepatitis B patients occurred among children because of the vaccine. 

If you're sexually active, remember that HBV is spread through bodily fluids, so proper protection is essential to avoiding the virus. Also remember that you should not share razors and toothbrushes and you should practice proper cleaning and disinfecting techniques at all times. 

For more information on hepatitis B, talk to your physician or check out these websites:

WebMD:
http://www.webmd.com/content/Article/90/100598.htm

Center for Disease Control
www.cdc.gov/hepatitis

Hepatitis B Foundation
http://www.hepb.org/