Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B is a blood borne viral infection that can lead to liver disease and in severe cases, death. Hepatitis B is spread through unsafe sexual practices, exchanging of bodily fluids, and sharing un-sterilised needles or piercing equipment (including tattooing).

Book an appointment

Symptoms

Loss of appetite, nausea, pain in the liver, fever, jaundice, and pain in the joints are the most frequent symptoms of Hepatitis B. Often Hepatitis B causes no symptoms and a person may feel fine but still be infectious.

Prevention

Hepatitis B is the only vaccine-preventable sexually acquired disease. The vaccine is generally given as a course of three injections over six months and once provided, protection is for life for most recipients.

Safer sexual practices such as using condoms may also help prevent infection.