Hepatitis B Transmission: Understanding the Routes

The hepatitis B virus (HBV) is transmitted through contact with infected blood or other bodily fluids, such as semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk. The most common routes of transmission are:

1. Sexual contact: HBV can be transmitted through unprotected sex with an infected person. This is the most common route of transmission worldwide.

2. Percutaneous exposure: HBV can be transmitted through contact with infected blood, such as through needlesticks, blood transfusions, or sharing needles for injection drug use.

3. Mother-to-child transmission: HBV can be transmitted from an infected mother to her baby during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.

4. Close contact: HBV can also be transmitted through close contact with an infected person, such as sharing toothbrushes, razors, or other personal items.

It's important to note that HBV is not spread through casual contact, such as shaking hands, hugging, or kissing.