Hepatitis B

Originally known as serum hepatitis, Hepatitis B has only been recognized as such since World War II, and has caused current epidemics in parts of Asia and Africa. Hepatitis B is transmitted thorough sexual contact, and by injections transporting a virus-bearing serum[?], most often during blood transfusion and by contaminated needles and syringes.

Roughly 16-40% of sexual partners of individuals with hepatitis B will be infected through sexual contact.

Hepatitis D infection requires a concommittant infection with hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B infection can lead to a chronic inflammation of the liver, leading to cirrhosis. This type of infection dramatically increases the incidence of liver cancer.

A recombinant vaccine to prevent hepatitis B is available.