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| Hepatitis B! What is it? |
Hepatitis B is a sexually transmitted infection transmitted by the Hepatitis B virus. Many people may not know of Hepatitis B which is sometimes referred to as ‘Hep B' this infection is not often spoken about like other sexually transmitted infections, but it is just as dangerous. Hepatitis B is usually spread by an infected person through semen, vaginal fluids, breast milk and saliva when there are open sores, a break in the skin or mucous membranes in the areas of the mouth, genitals or rectum.
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Who is at increase risk for contracting Hepatitis B?
• A man or woman who has multiple partners and do not practice safer sex by using condoms.
• Men who have sex with men
• Persons who may have another sexually transmitted infection
• Health professionals who may get stuck with a needle from an infected person
• Blood transfusion which is rare due to laboratories quality assurance.
• Babies born to infected mothers
What are the signs and symptoms of Hepatitis B?
These symptoms can sometimes be compared to flu like symptoms
• Jaundice (yellowing of the white of the eye, yellowing of the skin, brownish orange urine.
• Very light coloured stools (abnormally so)
• Tiredness that persist for weeks
• Fever and headache
• Nausea and loss of appetite
• Abdominal pain
Can Hepatitis B be treated?
Having an early diagnosis is very important in order to treat early to avoid complications such as liver diseases. If you have had hepatitis B for more than six months you could be a carrier of this infection. Seek medical attention early and if late seek medical advise to manage your condition, there is no cure.
How can we prevent Hepatitis B?
Persons should be vaccinated, including:
• Persons with high-risk sexual behaviour;
• Partners and household contacts of persons infected with HBV
• Persons occupational risk of HBV infection, including health care workers; and
• Persons travelling to countries with high rates of HBV.
• It is also important to use condoms every time that you have sex
• Do not share razors, toothbrushes, and earrings for pierced ears or equipment for manicuring or pedicures.
For more information contract the clinic nearest you, your medical doctor or the National AIDS Programme. |
| [ 14-01-2009 ] |
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