Hepatitis B

Around 296 million people are affected by chronic hepatitis B, an infection that is the leading cause of liver cancer globally.^1,3

Hepatitis B is spread in blood and body fluids. It can be caught through unprotected sex with someone infected with the virus, or by exposure to contaminated blood through the reuse of needles or syringes (for example, while injecting drugs or during medical procedures). It can also be transmitted by body piercings or tattoos using unsterilised equipment.¹

Hepatitis B is found in most countries, but the risk is higher in  Africa, eastern Europe and Asia (see map).²

Most people do not experience symptoms. But for those who do, the symptoms include: yellowing of the eyes and skin (jaundice), dark urine, extreme fatigue, nausea, vomiting and pain in the abdomen.¹ The infection usually lasts for 1-3 months. If the infection lasts for longer than 6 months, it is considered chronic hepatitis B.⁴

Hepatitis B is a serious disease. Though the initial symptoms generally pass within months, the virus can cause long-term and potentially fatal liver damage. It can also lead to the development of cirrhosis (a scarring of the liver) or liver cancer. Treatment can reduce this risk.^1,4

You can take the following precautions to help reduce your risk of infection:

• Visit your nearest convenient pharmacy or specialist travel health clinic for a risk assessment before your trip
• Don’t have unprotected sex (e.g. use condoms)⁵
• Avoid sharing or using unsterilised needles⁵ 
• Be cautious about body piercing and tattooing, making sure sterile needles are used⁵