World Hepatitis Day: Is Your Child At Risk Of Hepatitis B?

Wednesday, July 26, 2023, 17:25

Hepatitis B is a serious viral infection that affects the liver, and it's important for parents to be aware of the potential risks and take necessary precautions.

Children can die from hepatitis B if they are not given proper treatment. It can cause long-term health problems, including liver damage and cancer. Therefore, it is important for parents to take the necessary precautions to protect their children from hepatitis B, such as getting vaccinated [1].

What Is Hepatitis B?

Hepatitis B is a contagious liver infection caused by the Hepatitis B virus (HBV). It can be spread through contact with the blood or other body fluids of an infected person [2]. The virus can survive outside the body for at least seven days and can be transmitted through various means, such as unsafe injections, sharing personal items like toothbrushes or razors, and sexual contact.

How Is Hepatitis B Transmitted To Children?

Children can become infected with Hepatitis B in different ways. Here are some common examples [3][4]:

a) Mother-to-child transmission: If a pregnant woman has Hepatitis B, there is a risk of passing the infection to her baby during childbirth. However, this can be prevented with appropriate medical interventions, such as administering vaccines and immunoglobulin soon after birth.

b) Direct contact with infected blood or body fluids: Children may be at risk if they come into contact with the blood or body fluids of an infected person. This can happen through activities like sharing needles, getting tattoos or piercings with unsterilised equipment, or accidental needle stick injuries.

What Are The Symptoms Of Hepatitis B In Children?

Hepatitis B symptoms can vary from mild to severe, and they may not always be apparent in children. Some common symptoms include the following [5]:

- Fatigue

- Loss of appetite

- Nausea or vomiting

- Abdominal pain

- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)

- Dark urine

- Pale stools

How To Protect Your Kid Against Hepatitis B?

To protect your child from Hepatitis B, here are some important preventive measures you can take [6]:

- Vaccination: Make sure that your child receives the Hepatitis B vaccine, which is given in a series of shots starting at birth and completed by the age of 6 months. This vaccine provides long-lasting protection against the virus.

- Practice good hygiene: Teach your child about the importance of washing hands regularly with soap and water, especially before meals and after using the restroom. Avoid sharing personal items that could potentially come into contact with infected blood or body fluids.

- Safe needle practices: If your child requires any medical procedures involving needles, make sure that sterile equipment is used. Also, educate them about the risks of sharing needles and the importance of not engaging in drug use and exploitation.