HEPATITIS B

The symptoms of hepatitis B are often similar to those of influenza:

• loss of appetite, nausea
• fever
• muscle aches
• great fatigue (most common symptom)
• jaundice and dark urine (30-50% of cases in adults, rare in children)

Hepatitis B infection is often silent and asymptomatic.

In some cases, the body eliminates hepatitis B naturally. In other cases, if not treated in time, serious complications can arise, such as chronic hepatitis, cirrhosis, cancer, fulminant hepatitisboth of which can lead to death.

Co-infection with hepatitis B and HIV is common, and increases the risk of complications (cirrhosis, liver disease).

Since hepatitis B is often asymptomatic and impossible to differentiate from other forms of hepatitis, a blood test is the only way to confirm infection.

The vast majority of healthy adults can eliminate the hepatitis B virus from their bodies naturally, without the need for medical treatment. However, in around 5-10% of adults who fail to do so, hepatitis B can progress to a chronic (cirrhosis) or latent (the person is a carrier but the virus is inactive) form. Early diagnosis enables effective treatment of hepatitis B with antivirals.

Vaccination

A free, highly effective vaccine has been available in Belgium (since 1999) at the same time as other infant vaccines. In most cases, four injections guarantee lifelong immunity. A catch-up injection is possible during adolescence.

Adults who are not immunized can also be vaccinated with three injections. You can ask for a blood test to check whether you are already immune to hepatitis B.

More information on the hepatitis B vaccine at www.vaccination-info.be

Preventive measures

To minimize the risk of contamination :

• uses condoms (internal or external) and latex squares (for oral sex);
• use sterile and/or single-use injection equipment;
• Avoid contact with contaminated blood;
• do not share toothbrushes, manicure equipment, razors, etc.