Hepatitis B

FACTS:

Hepatitis B is transmitted through blood and other body fluids.
Hepatitis B cannot be spread through sneezing, coughing, hugging or eating food prepared by someone who is infected with hepatitis B.
Many people, especially children, will have no symptoms.
Symptoms include mild fever, fatigue, muscle aches, joint aches, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, nausea/vomiting, headache, dark urine, yellow eyes and skin. See a doctor immediately if these symptoms are present.
Hepatitis B affects the liver .
Some patients go on to develop a chronic, long term, form of hepatitis B.
Some children who test Hep B+ may have cleared the disease when they had it and no longer can pass on this disease to others.
However, some children, even if they don't appear to be sick or have the symptoms, can have active, chronic Hep B+, and they can pass the disease to unimmunized people, generally through blood contact.
Labwork to check on the progress of Chronic Hepatitis needs to be done on a schedule determined by a Physician.

IMPORTANT NOTES:

It is recommended that caregivers who regularly care for children receive vaccinations for Hepatitis B.
Never share sharp instruments such as razors and needles. Toothbrushes should never be shared between children.
Avoid direct contact with blood and bodily fluids.
If blood or bodily fluids are spilled, clean the area with a diluted bleach solution.
Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after any potential exposure to blood.
Families who are considering adopting a child with labwork that indicate a positive Hepatitis B result should consult with a Infectious Disease Physician or a Pediatrician familiar with the treatment of children with Hepatitis.
For more information about Children and Hepatitis B – please consult this website

http://www.hepb.org/patients/faq_children_and_hepatitis_b.htm

http://www.hepb.org/patients/children_and_hepatitis_b.htm

TREATMENT:

Treatment with medication is available for patients with chronic hepatitis B who meet specific medical criteria.
Treatment should be determined and closely monitored by a doctor familiar with the treatment of Hepatitis B in children.

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