What is Hepatitis B?
How is Hepatitis B Transmitted?
This virus spreads through infected blood and bodily fluids.
Common modes of transmission include:
- – Ineffectively sterilised medical & dental equipment
- – Shared needles
- – Blood transfusions using unscreened or poorly screened blood
- – Unprotected sexual contact with an infected person
- – Sharing of personal items like razors or toothbrushes
- – Mother to child during birth
Symptoms of Hepatitis B
Most people experience no symptoms for 10 years or more. By then, significant liver damage has already occurred. When this occurs, symptoms can include:
- – Fatigue and weakness
- – Loss of appetite
– Nausea or vomiting
– Yellowing of skin and eyes (jaundice)
– Abdominal pain
Vaccination is the Key
The most effective way to prevent Hepatitis B is through vaccination. The Hepatitis B vaccine is highly effective, safe and inexpensive. It contains no live virus, and is given as a series of injections, 0-1-6. It is recommended for all babies, children, and high-risk adults, including healthcare workers and those with liver disease. The primary goal of this vaccination is to prevent chronic HBV infection.
Other preventive measures include:
- – Use of sterile injections and avoiding needle sharing
- – Screening blood before transfusion
- – Practicing safe sexual behavior
- – Ensuring proper sterilization of medical and dental equipment
Why Does Awareness Matter?
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Over 250 million people worldwide are living with chronic Hepatitis B
– Millions remain undiagnosed because no symptoms occur for many years
– Awareness encourages people to get vaccinated, tested, and treated
THF Commitment
THF is dedicated to spreading awareness about Hepatitis B, promoting prevention through vaccination, and supporting those affected with access to care. Together, we can move towards a Hepatitis-Free Pakistan.