Q

What is Hepatitis B?

A

Hepatitis B is a germ(virus) that gets into your body and attacks your liver

Q

Will I die from Hepatitis B?

A

Most People do not die from it.

There are cases where hepatitis B can cause liver damage(cirrhosis) that does not go away.

Hepatitis B can also cause liver cancer, which may lead to death. Proper diagnosis and treatment reduces the risk.

Q

How do I get Hepatitis B?

A

It is passed by body contact with the blood or other body fluids of someone who has the virus.

1. Having Sex without condoms with someone who has Hepatitis B

2. Being born to a mother who has Hepatitis B

3. Sharing needles and syringes

Q

What is Acute and Chronic Hepatitis B?

A

9 out of 10 adults will get rid of the virus after a few months - this is Acute Hepatitis B while 1 out of every 10 adults never get rids of the virus. They have Chronic  Hepatitis B and they are called carriers

Q

Is there a treatment for chronic Hepatitis B?

A

Your Doctor can advise you about the treatment for chronic Hepatitis B. Most people will remain carrier if they do not get treatment

Q

How can i pass on the disease to my baby?

A

If you have Hepatitis B and a tiny bit of your blood gets inside your baby at birth.

Q

Can I breast fed my baby if I have Hepatitis B?

A

Yes, If your baby gets a shot called H-BIG and a shot of Hepatitis B vaccine within 12 hours of birth, it is okay to start breast feeding your baby. You should take good care of your nipple area to prevent cracking and bleeding.

Q

Can my baby die from Hepatitis B?

A

Most babies do not die from Hepatitis B. They should get all 3 shots plus a shot called H-BIG otherwise 9 out of 10 babies can remain carriers for the rest of their lives

Q

What shots are required for the baby if mother has Hepatitis B?

A

1. At Birth - Hepatitis B vaccine with H-BIG vaccine

2. 1 - 2 months - Hepatitis B vaccine

3. 6 months old - Hepatitis B vaccine

Q

How do the shots protect the baby?

A

These shots help babies' bodies make antibodies, which protect them from Hepatitis B

Q

What if my baby does not get this shot?

A

9 out of 10 babies born to infected mothers will be carriers for the rest of their lives, if they do not get the shots

Q

Are the shots safe?

A

Hepatitis B shots are safe and they will not effect the way your baby grows.

Q

Why my family members need to be tested?

A

Since hepatitis B virus can be passed to them they should be tested to see if they have the virus in their bodies and if they do have it, they should get the shots.