hepatitis B

Definition

Or: hepatitis / HBV , a viral infection of the liver caused by the Hepatitis B Virus (HBV). INCUBATION: 2 to 6 months after contact. HBV is spread through infected blood, semen, vaginal fluids and saliva; it can also be passed from an infected mother to her baby during childbirth or by sharing personal items such as toothbrushes and razors or by sharing needles or tattoo equipment. SYMPTOMS: Impaired liver function causes flu-like symptoms: abdominal pain, poor appetite, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, headaches, jaundice (yellowing of the eyes and skin), darkened (tea-coloured) urine, light colored stools. TREATMENT: No medical treatment can kill the virus; bed rest, eating a healthy diet and avoiding alcohol is recommended until the disease runs its course. Hepatitis B is the only STD that can be prevented by a vaccine of which there are 2 kinds: Engerix B and Recombivax HB; both are yeast-based vaccines.