Preventing Hepatitis B
Hepatitis
B Fact Sheet
(PDF 16 KB)
Hepatitis B occurs when a person comes into contact with blood or
other bodily fluids infected with the hepatitis B virus. The highest
risk for transmission occurs with IV drug use and through
unprotected sex.
Vaccination is the best prevention for hepatitis B.
Practicing safe sex 100% of the time will prevent sexual transmission
of hepatitis B. Because the virus can be passed in semen, men may
pass the virus to their sexual partners. Women may pass the virus to
their sexual partners through their menstrual blood, vaginal
secretions, or through open sores in their genital area.
Contact with saliva from a person with hepatitis B can also transmit
the virus, but it is not likely. When a mother has hepatitis B, the
newborn infant may acquire it during birth.
Persons that inject drugs should always avoid sharing needles. In
addition, needles should be placed directly into sharps containers
after use. You should never try to 're-cap' used needles.
Rapidly clean blood from surfaces and objects, and disinfect, using a
bleach solution (1 part bleach to 10 parts water) or other approved
disinfectant.
Wear plastic, latex, or rubber gloves when touching anything
contaminated with blood-tinged body fluids or when in contact with
other bodily secretions.
This disease is not spread through coughing, sneezing, urine, or
feces.
Those with hepatitis B should follow these precautions to prevent
spread to others:
Do not donate blood.
Do not share personal toiletries, such as scissors, razors,
toothbrushes, or towels.
Always wash hands thoroughly with soap and water if they become
contaminated with blood.
Practice safe sex (i.e. use a condom 100% of the time) until no longer
infectious.
Carefully clean or dispose of clothing or other articles soiled with
blood.
If pregnant, inform the doctor or midwife who will deliver the infant.
|
