What does "Hepatitis B Virus" mean?
Table of Contents
Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) is a virus that affects the liver and can cause serious health problems. It is mainly spread through contact with infected blood and bodily fluids, often through unprotected sex or sharing needles. A person infected with HBV can carry the virus for a long time, sometimes for life.
Symptoms and Health Effects
Many people with HBV do not show any symptoms. However, some may experience fatigue, stomach pain, or yellowing of the skin and eyes, known as jaundice. Chronic HBV can lead to liver damage, cirrhosis, and liver cancer.
Types of HBV
HBV exists in different types, called genotypes, labeled A through J. These types are determined based on the virus's genetic material. Knowing the type can help in understanding how the virus may behave and how best to treat it.
Diagnosis and Treatment
HBV is diagnosed through blood tests that look for the virus or the body’s response to it. While there is no complete cure for HBV, treatments are available to manage the infection and reduce the risk of severe liver damage. Vaccines are also available to prevent HBV infection.
Importance of Monitoring
Understanding the different types and the ways HBV changes over time is important for controlling outbreaks and developing new treatments. Monitoring HBV can help in knowing how best to care for those infected and to prevent the spread of the virus.