What is hepatitis B?
Hepatitis B is a liver infection that causes inflammation, and can cause the liver to malfunction. It can present as either a short term (acute) or long term (chronic) infection, meaning while there is no treatment available for hepatitis B, some people are able to get rid of the virus within 6 months (acute), while others might not be (chronic). 

How is hepatitis B transmitted?
Hepatitis B is transmitted through bodily fluids such as blood, semen, and breastmilk. Activities such as sexual contact, sharing drug-injection equipment like needles and syringes, or giving birth can result in a hepatitis B transmission. The virus can remain on untreated surfaces for up to 7 days and remain potent and Infectious.

What are the risks associated with hepatitis B?
For some people, hepatitis B is a short-term illness, but long-term chronic hepatitis B can cause cirrhosis (liver scarring), liver cancer, liver failure, and premature death.

What are the signs & symptoms of hepatitis B?
Not everyone with hepatitis B will experience symptoms. Symptoms usually appear 90 days after exposure, and can last for weeks. Some people feel sick for up to 6 months.

Symptoms include: 

• Fever

• Fatigue

• Joint pain

• Loss of appetite

• Nausea

• Stomach pain

• Vomiting

• Dark urine

• Clay-colored bowel movements

• Jaundice (a yellowing of the eyes and skin)

Can Hepatitis B be tested for?
A triple panel test which includes hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), antibody to hepatitis B surface antigen (anti-HBs), and total antibody to hepatitis B core antigen (total anti-HBc) is recommended when testing for hepatitis B. The CDC recommends screening all adults aged 18 years and older for hepatitis B at least once in their lifetime. Pregnant individuals should get tested for hepatitis B, preferably in their first trimester.

What treatments are available for those who have contracted hepatitis B?
There is no treatment for acute infections. Symptoms can be treated through rest, proper nutrition, and fluids. Although not every person with chronic hepatitis B may need medication, there are certain anti-viral treatments and monitoring available to ensure against liver damage. These medications may cause side effects, and some people may need to take them indefinitely, as they do not cure hepatitis B.

Is there a way to reduce the risk of transmission of hepatitis B?
Any fluid transfer involving saliva, semen, and/or blood can provide for transmission, so it is important to follow sterilization protocols for surfaces, implements and toys to avoid transmission.

Getting vaccinated against hepatitis B can help protect against transmission.