Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is a virus that can potentially cause a life-threatening liver infection. It can be passed on from one person to another through intimate physical contact. In adults, an infection often does not present with obvious symptoms in the first 2 or 3 months.
Symptoms
- Flu-like symptoms (e.g., fever and tiredness)
- Loss of appetite
- Stomach pain including diarrhoea
- Yellowing of the eyes and skin
Why Get Tested For Hepatitis B?
Not getting tested regularly for hepatitis B can lead to spreading the disease to your sexual partner. Left untreated, the infection can lead to liver cirrhosis and liver cancer.
When To Get Tested For Hepatitis B?
You can get tested at any time, but you should get tested if you have symptoms or have had a sexual partner with a confirmed infection.
FAQ
Hepatitis B is really contagious. It’s transmitted through contact with semen, vaginal fluids, and blood.
Most adults with hepatitis B recover fully, even if their signs and symptoms are severe. Infants and children are more likely to develop a chronic (long-lasting) hepatitis B infection.
The only way to know for sure if you have hepatitis B is to get tested — whether or not you have symptoms. If you’re showing any signs of hepatitis B, you should get tested.