Posted On Dec 24, 2019
Manipal Hospitals
Hepatitis B is a contagious liver infection caused by the Hepatitis B virus (HBV). HBV virus is passed from person to person through blood, semen or other body fluids. Common ways HBV is transmitted include:
HBV is a common virus that infects and inflames the liver. Hepatitis infection can be either acute or chronic. Jaundice, fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, joint pain and abdominal pain are symptoms of Hepatitis B. Chronic hepatitis B can cause severe complications like liver failure, liver cirrhosis, liver cancer, kidney disease, inflammation of blood vessels and anemia. HBV has no medical cure, but it can be prevented by vaccination and other lifestyle changes.
Here are the preventive measures for hepatitis B infection.
The best way to prevent Hepatitis B infection is to get vaccinated against the virus. The vaccine is administered three times over a six-month period. The vaccine is 95% effective against Hepatitis B. It provides indefinite protection against infection. Vaccination is recommended for:
Before engaging in unprotected sex with your partner, make sure that he/she is not infected with HBV or other STDs.
If you do not know the health status of your partner, then use a condom every time you have sex. But one thing you need to remember is that condom can only reduce the risk of contracting HBV, does not eliminate the risk. Visit Manipal, the best kidney hospital.
If you are using illicit drugs, then stop using them to prevent Hepatitis B infection.
If you want to get a tattoo or piercing, then look for a reputable shop. Before getting it done, ask about how the equipment is cleaned and make sure that the person is using sterile needles.
If you are traveling to an area where Hepatitis B is common or prevalent, then consult your doctor about getting the vaccine and have it in advance. It is usually given in three doses over a six-month period.
Avoid sharing toothbrushes, nail clippers, or razors with an infected person. Small cuts in the skin are a perfect model for contracting such viruses.
Your immune system plays a crucial role in protecting you from infections. To keep your immune system strong you need to follow the following lifestyle such as:
You can take the above-mentioned preventive steps to reduce your risk of contracting Hepatitis B infection.