Hepatitis B: Prevention and risks
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Transmission
The Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing HBV (including semen and vaginal fluid). It can be transmitted through:
- blood transfusions or organ transplantation in countries where blood or blood products are not adequately/routinely screened for HBV (which is not the case in Canada)
- condomless sex with a person with HBV
- sharing equipment for preparing and consuming drugs (such as pipes, straws, spoons, needles, syringes and cookers)
- unsterilized medical/dental equipment
- shared/unsterilized materials or equipment used for tattooing, body piercing or acupuncture
- sharing personal care items, such as nail clippers, toothbrushes or razors
- vaginal delivery by a person who has HBV
- contact between household members
A person with HBV who has no symptoms or signs of hepatitis B can pass the virus to another person. Most people who develop chronic hepatitis B can transmit HBV to other people for the rest of their lives.
Preventing Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is preventable through immunization. Ask your health care provider to check if you are protected against hepatitis B (either through vaccination or previous infection). Consider getting the vaccine if you are not protected and/or have an increased likelihood of getting hepatitis B.
To help prevent acquiring or transmitting HBV:
- talk to your partner(s) about safer sex and being tested for sexually transmitted and blood borne infections (STBBI)
- learn about safer sex methods and practice them, such as correctly and consistently using a condom during vaginal, anal and oral sex
- use lubricant when engaging in anal sex and rough sex. Some lubricants can weaken latex and lead to condom breakage. Consult the package labels for information on how to safely use condoms and lubricant.
- use new drug use equipment and do not share equipment for preparing and injecting, smoking or snorting drugs
- use new and sterile equipment for each person
- assure household members are protected
- only get tattoos and piercings in professional settings that follow regulations and standards and are inspected and approved by local public health departments
Travel-related considerations
Hepatitis B occurs worldwide.
Your likelihood of exposure to HBV while travelling depends on several factors:
- the destination
- length of visit
- what you do when travelling
- whether you have direct contact with blood.
Be aware of your likelihood for hepatitis B and other travel-related illnesses when planning travel. Your likelihood for hepatitis B may be higher in certain destinations, as some areas have higher numbers of people with chronic hepatitis B. Consult a health care provider or visit a travel health clinic before you travel. You can find information on travel health recommendations by country at travel.gc.ca.
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