Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is a viral STBBI transmitted mainly through unprotected sex and injection drug use. Symptoms such as fatigue, loss of appetite, abdominal pain and jaundice are indicative of this liver infection. It can take up to 12 weeks to be detected after exposure. Fortunately, this infection can be prevented by vaccination.
Causes
Hepatitis B is an infection caused by a virus transmitted via bodily fluids, including blood. Transmission occurs mainly through unprotected sexual intercourse or the sharing of injection equipment among drug users. Hepatitis B can also be transmitted from mother to fetus during pregnancy.
Who is at risk of infection?
In Quebec, most new infections are linked to unprotected sex and injection drug use. Certain populations are also at greater risk, notably immigrants and aboriginals. There is also an increased risk of transmission when traveling and undergoing non-sterile procedures (transfusions, tattoos).
The following statements indicate a higher risk of infection:
- Having sex without a condom
- Having sex with several partners
- Sharing injection equipment
- Tattooing or piercing with non-sterile equipment
- Working as a healthcare professional
People with HIV may be at high risk of contracting hepatitis B, as they share similar risk factors.
Symptoms and complications
People infected with hepatitis B do not always show symptoms. When they do, it can be months after the initial infection. Manifestations include :
- Severe fatigue
- loss of appetite, nausea or vomiting
- Abdominal pain and diarrhea
- Pale stools and dark urine
- Fever
- Jaundice (yellowing of the eyes or skin)
In most cases, hepatitis B heals spontaneously within six months. Following infection, the production of antibodies protects against hepatitis B. In some cases, however, the virus is not eliminated and the infection becomes chronic, increasing the risk of transmission. Chronic hepatitis B increases the risk of liver disease, including cirrhosis and liver cancer.
Screening and treatment
How to screen? Screening is performed by a blood test.
When to screen? The minimum delay before detection is one week. The window period for detection ends 12 weeks after exposure.
Antiviral treatments exist to stop the virus replicating and delay the progression of chronic hepatitis B.
Protection
A vaccine against hepatitis B is available. For more information, see "VACCINATION - Hepatitis A and B". Other means of prevention include the use of condoms during every sexual encounter. When using intravenous drugs, we recommend using sterile equipment and not sharing it. Since it is possible to be infected and still have no symptoms, routine screening is indicated according to your risk factors and vaccination status.