Health officials in the United States are warning parents to get their kids immunized against hepatitis B, after a sixth child has died from acute hepatitis.

The majority of these deaths have been from children in the 12-18 month age range, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) believes that these deaths could have been prevented if the children had been vaccinated against the disease.

What is hepatitis B?

Hepatitis B is a liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus. It can cause both acute and chronic diseases. And it can range in severity from a mild illness lasting a few weeks to a serious, lifelong illness.

The virus is spread through contact with the blood or other body fluids of an infected person. This can happen through having unprotected sex, sharing needles, or being exposed to infected blood products.

Why are children at risk?

Children are at risk for hepatitis B because they may come into contact with infected blood or bodily fluids.

They may also be exposed to the virus if they share items that have been contaminated with blood or other fluids, such as toothbrushes or razors. In addition, children who are born to mothers who carry the hepatitis B virus are at risk of developing the infection themselves.

What are the symptoms of hepatitis B?

Many people with hepatitis B have no symptoms at all. However, when symptoms do occur, they can include:.

Fever
Fatigue
Joint pain
Loss of appetite
Nausea and vomiting
Abdominal pain
Dark urine
Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)

How is hepatitis B diagnosed?

Hepatitis B is diagnosed with a blood test that looks for signs of the hepatitis B virus in your blood. If you have symptoms of hepatitis or you have been exposed to someone with the virus, your doctor may order this test for you.

In some cases, your doctor may also order other tests to evaluate the health of your liver.

How is hepatitis B treated?

There is no cure for hepatitis B. However, there are treatments that can help manage the symptoms of the disease and slow down the progression of the infection.

These treatments include antiviral medications, which can help reduce the amount of virus in your body. Your doctor may also recommend lifestyle changes, such as avoiding alcohol and maintaining a healthy diet.

Why is vaccination important?

Vaccination is important because it can help prevent the spread of hepatitis B. Vaccination can also protect you from developing the disease if you are exposed to the virus.

The hepatitis B vaccine is safe and effective, and it has been recommended by the CDC for all infants since 1991.

How can you prevent hepatitis B?

You can prevent hepatitis B by getting vaccinated for the disease. You can also reduce your risk of hepatitis B by taking precautions to avoid exposure to the virus. This includes:.

Using condoms during sex
Avoiding sharing needles or other injection equipment
Avoiding sharing personal items that may be contaminated with blood or other fluids, such as razors or toothbrushes
Washing your hands frequently, especially after coming into contact with bodily fluids

Conclusion

The recent deaths of several children from acute hepatitis B in the US is a reminder of the importance of vaccination. Vaccination is a safe and effective way to protect yourself and your children from hepatitis B.

If you have not yet been vaccinated for hepatitis B, talk to your doctor about getting immunized.