Hepatitis B

What is Hepatitis B?

Hepatitis B is a disease that can make you very sick. It is easier to get than AIDS and can cause permanent liver damage and even death. Each year, at least 200,000 people become infected with Hepatitis B virus (HBV) in the United States, and 4,000 - 5,000 people die from Hepatitis B related illnesses. In fact, after tobacco, Hepatitis B is the most common known cause of cancer worldwide.

How do you get it?

Hepatitis B is a virus that is spread through blood and other body fluids like saliva or semen. The virus can enter your body through an unsterile needle, sexual contact, or contact with a cut or even your eyes. You can get Hepatitis B from tattooing and ear or body piercing, and because the virus can live on a surface for up to 30 days, you can also get it by sharing eating utensils, a toothbrush, or a razor with someone who is infected.

What are the possible long-term effects?

Up to 10% of people who get Hepatitis B become chronic carriers of the disease. Chronic carriers of Hepatitis B often suffer serious liver damage, including cirrhosis, which causes parts of the liver to die, and liver cancer. Additionally, babies born to mothers with Hepatitis B are at very high risk of contracting the virus. Although Hepatitis B can be devastating, the disease and its consequences can be prevented.

Are you at risk?????

Use this list of questions to see if you are an increased risk of getting Hepatitis B:

	Do you share earrings, toothbrushes, or razors with anyone?
	Have you undergone any body piercing or tattooing?
	Do you have a job or are you a volunteer at a place that could put you in contact with blood or body fluids (such as a hospital or health-care clinic)?
	Are you sexually active or planning to become sexually active?
	Have you ever had a sexually transmitted disease?
	Have you ever used IV drugs?
	Do you live with, or have close contact with, someone who has Hepatitis B?
	Have you ever lived in a high-risk part of the world (Africa, China, Middle East, South America, Southeast Asia, Pacific Islands)?
	Do you get blood transfusions for a medical condition?

If you answered YES to any of these questions, you may be at increased risk of getting Hepatitis B. You may also be at increased risk for HIV infection. HIV is the virus that causes AIDS. It is a good idea to talk to your doctor, nurse or parent about ways to prevent Hepatitis B and HIV infection.

For more information contact your local health department or physician.