HEPATITIS B

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

- loss of appetite, nausea

- fever

- muscle aches

- extreme fatigue (most frequent symptom)

- jaundice (30-50% of cases in adults, rare in children)

Hepatitis B infection is often silent and asymptomatic.

If Hepatitis B infection is 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 indistinguishable from other forms of hepatitis, a blood test is the only way to confirm HBV 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 form, likely to cause serious complications. Fortunately, early diagnosis means that hepatitis B can be effectively treated 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 can also be vaccinated with two injections, provided they have not previously been in contact with the virus.

Find out more about the hepatitis B vaccine on the vaccination.

Preventive measures

To minimize the risk of contamination :

- uses a condom (internal or external) and a latex square (for oral sex)

- uses sterile injection equipment

- avoids contact with contaminated blood

- don't share toothbrushes, manicure equipment, razors, etc.

- avoid large-scale saliva exchanges. A kiss or a drink from someone else's glass is not a sufficient exchange of saliva.

Symptoms of hepatitis B can go unnoticed, so get tested, protect yourself and your partners.