Hepatitis B
Also known as: Hep B, HBV
Hepatitis B is a viral liver infection spread through blood, unsafe injections, sexual contact and from mother to baby. It can become chronic and lead to cirrhosis or liver cancer.
Symptoms
- Often no symptoms
- Jaundice
- Tiredness
- Dark urine
- Abdominal pain
Causes
- Hepatitis B virus
Risk factors
- Unsafe injections or transfusions
- Unprotected sex
- Born to an infected mother
Complications
- Cirrhosis
- Liver cancer
Treatment overview
Chronic infection is monitored and treated with antiviral medicines when needed.
Prevention
- Hepatitis B vaccine
- Safe injections
- Screening in pregnancy
When to see a doctor
If you test positive for HBsAg or have jaundice.
Specialists who treat it
Frequently asked questions
What are the symptoms of Hepatitis B?
Often no symptoms, Jaundice, Tiredness, Dark urine, Abdominal pain
What causes Hepatitis B?
Hepatitis B virus
How is Hepatitis B treated?
Chronic infection is monitored and treated with antiviral medicines when needed.
How can Hepatitis B be prevented?
Hepatitis B vaccine, Safe injections, Screening in pregnancy
Medically reviewed by
Medical review pending
Last updated
9 October 2026
Sources
- World Health Organization fact sheets
- ICMR and MoHFW national guidelines
- National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC)
This information is for general awareness and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. Do not start, stop or change any medicine without medical advice.