Somali Hepatitis Trust · Hepatitis Education
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is a viral infection that affects the liver. It can be short-term or become a chronic infection that may lead to serious liver complications. Vaccination, testing and appropriate care can help protect lives.
Understanding Hepatitis B
Know the infection. Know your options.
Hepatitis B is caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). It can cause inflammation of the liver and may lead to long-term liver damage in some people.
Some people recover from an acute infection, while others develop chronic Hepatitis B. Chronic infection can increase the risk of cirrhosis, liver failure and liver cancer.
Many people do not notice symptoms, especially in the early stages. A blood test can help determine whether someone has a current infection, has recovered from a previous infection or has immunity from vaccination.
Remember
Hepatitis B is preventable through vaccination. If you are concerned about exposure or your status, speak with a qualified healthcare professional about testing and the next steps.
The Essential Facts
Four things to understand.
Understanding the infection is an important step towards prevention and early care.
Affects the Liver
The virus causes liver inflammation and may lead to damage if infection becomes chronic.
Can Be Chronic
Some people carry the virus long term and need regular medical assessment and monitoring.
Can Be Prevented
A safe and effective vaccine provides strong protection against Hepatitis B.
Testing Matters
Blood tests can identify infection and help healthcare professionals plan appropriate care.
How It Spreads
Understand the routes of transmission.
Hepatitis B spreads when infected blood or certain body fluids enter another person's body.
Mother to Baby
The virus can pass from an infected mother to her baby, particularly during childbirth. Prevention and timely newborn vaccination are important.
Blood Exposure
Sharing needles or equipment contaminated with infected blood can transmit the virus.
Sexual Contact
Infection can spread through sexual contact involving infected body fluids. Vaccination helps reduce risk.
Unsafe Equipment
Unsterile medical, tattooing or piercing equipment can transmit infection if contaminated with infected blood.
Can you get it from everyday contact?
Hepatitis B does not ordinarily spread through hugging, sharing meals, coughing, sneezing or casual social contact. People living with Hepatitis B should be treated with respect, not stigma. Learn how hepatitis spreads ↗
Recognise the Signs
Possible symptoms of Hepatitis B.
Some people have no symptoms. When symptoms occur, they may include the following signs.
Unusual Tiredness
Persistent fatigue, weakness or a general feeling of being unwell.
Nausea
Nausea, vomiting or loss of appetite may occur.
Jaundice
Yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes can be a sign of liver problems.
Dark Urine
Urine may become unusually dark, and stools may appear pale.
When to seek medical advice
Seek medical assessment if you develop jaundice or persistent symptoms. Confusion, unusual sleepiness, bleeding or rapidly worsening symptoms require urgent medical care.
Testing & Treatment
Know your status. Get the right care.
Testing can identify infection and help healthcare professionals decide what care or monitoring may be needed.
Hepatitis B testing
Blood tests can help determine whether a person has a current infection, a past infection or immunity from vaccination. Additional tests may be needed to assess liver health.
Pregnant women should receive recommended screening. Anyone who may have been exposed should contact a healthcare professional promptly.
Treatment and monitoring
Acute infection often requires supportive care and medical monitoring. Some people with chronic Hepatitis B benefit from antiviral medicines that suppress the virus and reduce the risk of liver damage. Treatment decisions depend on individual test results and clinical assessment.
Get Tested
Ask a healthcare professional which blood tests are appropriate for you.
Follow Your Plan
Attend recommended appointments and follow medical advice.
Protect Your Liver
Discuss alcohol, medicines and supplements with your healthcare provider.
Stay Informed
Learn whether ongoing liver assessment or treatment is recommended for you.
Prevention
Practical steps that protect lives.
Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent Hepatitis B. Other safe practices also help reduce transmission.
Get Vaccinated
Ask about vaccination if you are not protected. Newborns should receive the recommended birth dose as soon as possible, ideally within 24 hours, followed by the recommended series.
Protect Newborns
Recommended pregnancy screening and timely infant vaccination help reduce transmission from mother to baby.
Use Sterile Equipment
Ensure medical, tattooing and piercing equipment is properly sterilised or single-use as appropriate.
Do Not Share Personal Items
Avoid sharing razors, toothbrushes, needles or other items that may carry traces of blood.
Long-Term Liver Health
Protect your health for the future.
Chronic Hepatitis B can increase the risk of cirrhosis and liver cancer. Regular monitoring helps identify problems and guide care, even when a person feels well.
Explore More
Continue learning about hepatitis.
Explore more SHT educational resources about hepatitis, transmission and prevention.
Types & Causes
Understand the main types of viral hepatitis and how they differ.
How Hepatitis Spreads
Learn about transmission routes and ways to reduce risk.
Prevention & Treatment
Explore vaccination, screening and treatment information.
Contact SHT
Find out more about Somali Hepatitis Trust and its educational resources.
Somali Hepatitis Trust
Building a hepatitis-aware Somalia.
Knowledge, prevention, testing and access to appropriate care can help protect individuals, families and communities.
This page provides general health education and does not replace diagnosis or advice from a qualified healthcare professional. For personal medical concerns, contact a healthcare provider.