Hepatitis B: Transmission, Risks, and Prevention

Hepatitis B is a liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). It is spread through contact with infected blood or bodily fluids, such as semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk. HBV can be transmitted through:

- Unprotected sex with an infected person

- Sharing needles or other drug paraphernalia with an infected person

- Accidental needlesticks or other sharp object injuries

- Contact with blood or bodily fluids of an infected person, such as through open wounds or sores

- From an infected mother to her baby during childbirth

HBV is not spread through casual contact, such as hugging, kissing, or sharing food or drink.