HEPATITIS B

Hepatitis B is a disease that can make you very sick. Hepatitis B is easier to get than AIDS. This disease can cause permanent liver damage and even death. Each year, at least 200,000 people become infected with hepatitis B virus (HBV)

Hepatitis B is spread through blood and other body fluids like saliva or semen. The virus can enter the body through unsterile needles, sexual contact or contact with a cut or fluids from your eyes. Hepatitis B can be spread through tattooing or body piercing. The virus can live on a surface for up to 30 days. A person can also get Hepatitis B by sharing eating utensils, a toothbrush or a razor from somewhat who is infected.

Symptoms which may occur in people infected with Hepatitis B are tiredness, aches all over, temperature and flu-like symptoms. The urine may become dark in color, bowel movements may be light in color, the skin may itch, and the eyes may turn yellowish, which is called jaundice. These symptoms should be reported to your physician.

You can protect yourself by getting the Hepatitis B vaccine. This is a 3-series vaccination. After the first vaccine, a second is given in one month, and then the third is given six months after the first.