Hepatitis B

What is Hepatitis B?

Hepatitis B is a major global health concern, with approximately 296 million people living with chronic HBV infection worldwide. The virus is transmitted through contact with infected blood or body fluids, including during childbirth, unprotected sexual contact, and sharing needles. While many adults clear the virus naturally, about 5-10% develop chronic infection, which can silently damage the liver over decades. The UAE mandates hepatitis B screening for visa applicants and has implemented universal childhood vaccination. Blood tests for HBsAg, anti-HBs, and HBV DNA are essential for diagnosis, determining infection stage, and guiding treatment decisions.

Symptoms

• ●Fatigue and weakness
• ●Nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite
• ●Abdominal pain especially near the liver
• ●Dark urine
• ●Yellowing of skin and eyes (jaundice)
• ●Joint pain
• ●Fever

What Causes Hepatitis B?

Hepatitis B is caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV), a DNA virus that infects liver cells. The virus is transmitted through blood-to-blood contact, sexual contact, and from mother to child during birth. It is 50-100 times more infectious than HIV.

Risk Factors

• ⚠Born in a region with high HBV prevalence
• ⚠Unvaccinated individuals
• ⚠Healthcare workers exposed to blood
• ⚠People who inject drugs
• ⚠Sexual partners of infected individuals
• ⚠Infants born to HBV-positive mothers

How to Prevent Hepatitis B

Vaccination is the most effective prevention, providing over 95% protection. Practicing safe sex, avoiding sharing needles, and ensuring proper sterilization of medical and cosmetic equipment are essential preventive measures.

When to Get Tested

Test if you are unvaccinated, from a high-prevalence region, a healthcare worker, or as part of routine visa or prenatal screening in the UAE.

References & Sources

• [1]
  WHO — Hepatitis BAccessed: 2026-02-24
• [2]
  CDC — Hepatitis BAccessed: 2026-02-24
• [3]
  Mayo Clinic — Hepatitis BAccessed: 2026-02-24