Hepatitis B is the most common serious liver infection in the world. It is caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV) that attacks the liver. This disease is more infectious than AIDS because it is very easily transmitted by blood, a single virus particle can cause disease. It is transmitted through infected blood and other body fluids like seminal fluid, vaginal secretions, breast milk, tears, saliva and open sores . Once infected with the hepatitis B virus, approximately 10% of the people develop a chronic permanent infection.It is very common in Asia, China, Philippines, China, Africa and the Middle east.The overall incidence of reported hepatitis B is 2 per 10,000 individuals, but the true incidence may be higher, because many cases do not cause symptoms and go undiagnosed and unreported.

The virus that causes hepatitis B is called the hepatitis B virus. The virus is transmitted through blood and bodily fluids that contain blood. This can occur through direct blood-to-blood contact, unprotected sex, illicit drug use.The other common mode of transmission is from hepatitis B infected mothers to the fetus prior to birth.

Who are at risk for developing Hepatitis B
People who are exposed to blood or body fluids of an infected person are at risk.

When exposed to blood while doing a job like the first aid or emergency worker, funeral director, police personnel, dentist or dental assistant, or medical personnel.
Living in the same household with an infected person.
Indulging in sex with a carrier or chronically infected person.
People who have more than one sex partner.
People who work or are incarcerated in a prison.
Traveling to countries with a high incidence of hepatitis B.
People who get tattoos made or have their ear or body pierced.
Intravenous drug users who share needles and syringes are at extremely high risk.

There is no specific treatment for acute hepatitis. Bed rest is recommended during the acute phase of the disease when the symptoms are most severe.
A good nutritious diet is supplemented if there is jaundice.
Some patients may respond to alpha interferon therapy.
Other promising treatment options for chronic hepatitis B include nucleoside analogue drugs.

Prevention
Change any abnormal sex behavior and use condoms while having unprotected sex.
Wear gloves when touching or cleaning up blood on personal items, tissues, tampons or other items.
Don't share razors, toothbrushes or pierced earrings with anyone;
Make certain any needles for drugs, ear piercing or tattooing are properly sterilized or use disposable needles for this purpose.

If I have Jaundice or Hepatitis which doctor is best suited to treat me ?
Usually a general practitioner will treat hepatitis however,some physicians have a special interest and may help with treating the case.

How can I prevent myself from aquiring Hepatitis B ?
You can protect yourself against hepatitis B with a safe and effective vaccine. To be fully protected three injections are required;
day 0 - 1st injection
day 30 - 2nd injection
day 180 - 3rd injection

Who is a carrier ?
An Hepatitis B virus carrier is someone who has had hepatitis B in their blood for more than six months. A carrier usually has no signs or symptoms of Hepatitis B virus but remains infected with the virus for years or for a lifetime and is capable of passing the disease on to others.