Viral hepatitis B is a dangerous infectious disease that affects the human liver. It is caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV), which is transmitted through blood, sexual contact, and from mother to child during childbirth. The danger of the disease lies in the fact that it is often asymptomatic but can become chronic. Chronic hepatitis B can lead to cirrhosis of the liver or even primary liver cancer. Every year, more than 800,000 people worldwide die from complications related to hepatitis B.
Children who become infected with the hepatitis B virus in their first year of life become chronic carriers in 80-90% of cases. If infection occurs between the ages of 1 and 5, the risk of chronicity is 20-30%. In adults, this risk is significantly lower — less than 5% — so children are the most vulnerable. In most children, the disease is asymptomatic, but the virus remains in the liver and can lead to complications in the future. Chronic hepatitis B in childhood increases the risk of cirrhosis and liver cancer in adulthood. A child carrier can be a source of infection for others, even if they appear completely healthy.
The only reliable protection against this disease is vaccination. The hepatitis B vaccine is safe and effective, and it provides long-lasting immunity. The vaccination is included in the National Calendar: newborns receive the first dose within the first 24 hours of life, then at 2 and 6 months of age. The first dose of the vaccine within the first 24 hours of life protects the newborn from infection from an infected mother. Vaccination is recommended not only for children but also for adults, especially those who are at risk.
The risk group for infection with viral hepatitis B includes:
Newborns whose mothers are infected with hepatitis B.
Healthcare workers who come into contact with blood and biological fluids (doctors, nurses, laboratory technicians).
Patients who frequently receive blood transfusions or undergo hemodialysis procedures.
People who inject drugs and use unsterile syringes.
People with multiple sexual partners or those who do not use protection during sexual intercourse.
Family members of infected individuals who may come into contact with their blood or personal belongings.
Security personnel, military personnel, and police officers who are at risk of coming into contact with blood while on duty.
People who travel to regions with a high prevalence of hepatitis B.
People with chronic liver disease or other infections (such as HIV), as they are more vulnerable.
Tattoo artists and piercers, if they do not follow sterility rules.
Mass immunization can prevent the spread of viral hepatitis.
You can find out about the availability of vaccines in medical institutions in the Donetsk region on the official website of the State Institution “DONETSK OCCPH MOH” at the link State Institution “DONETSK OCCPH MOH” https://dn.cdc.gov.ua/citizens/vaccination/
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State Institution “DONETSK CENTRAL CHEMICAL AND BIOLOGICAL PROTECTION CENTER OF THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH”