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Risk Factors
Risk factors for hepatitis B infection include a variety of activities or settings where infected blood or bodily fluids can be exchanged. These include:
Sex: Multiple sexual partners, unprotected sex, and men who have sex with men are at increased risk of hepatitis B infections. The risk of infection is notably high in promiscuous homosexual men, but it is also transmitted sexually from men to women and women to men. Transmission is probably prevented by correct use of condoms.
People who are married to or have sexual relationships with heterosexuals or homosexuals who have chronic hepatitis B infections are also at high risk and should be vaccinated. Sexually active teens who may lack knowledge of the virus and fail to use protection during sex are at high risk.
Drug use: Injecting drugs, particularly using shared needles, puts a person at very high risk of contracting hepatitis B.
Healthcare employment: Doctors, nurses, first responders, emergency technicians, or other health and emergency workers who are exposed to blood are at high risk of infection and should be vaccinated against hepatitis B.
Social service settings: Staff and residents in facilities for the developmentally disabled, in group homes, or in correctional institutions are also at risk and should be vaccinated.
Kidney disease: Patients with kidney disease and those undergoing dialysis are at increased risk of infection.
Household contacts: Living in the household of someone with chronic hepatitis B often results in infection, particularly if there is sharing of nonsterilized personal care items.
War and natural disasters: War and natural disasters may expose individuals to contaminated blood and fluids. Soldiers and relief workers often serve in countries where hepatitis B is endemic.
Foreign travel: Travelers to regions where hepatitis B is common (Asia, Africa, South America, the Pacific Islands, eastern Europe, and the Middle East) should be vaccinated to prevent infection.
Adoption: Families considering adoption, either domestic or international, should be vaccinated. Studies show that asymptomatic adoptees, particularly from countries where hepatitis B is widespread, can infect the family.
Tattoos, piercings, beauty treatments: Body piercing, using improperly sterilized equipment during medical or beauty procedures (such as manicures or pedicures), or tattooing with potentially contaminated needles or ink can lead to hepatitis B infection.
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