Increase in Acute Hepatitis B cases in West Virginia

The number of acute cases of hepatitis B in the Harrison County-Clarksburg area of the U.S. state of West Virginia is sharply up from previous years.

According to Harrison-Clarksburg Health Department Nursing Director Margaret Howe, there have been 17 cases reported so far in 2013.  Normally there are 2 to 3 cases per year.  An acute case is defined as an infection in someone who has not previously had the disease.

The disease is transmitted through exchange of body fluids, such as blood, semen, etc. and can acquired through sharing needles, having sex, etc.  Some healthcare professionals can also be exposed to it through their work.  In addition, the disease can also be transmitted from mother to child during pregnancy or through close contact.

Hepatitis B is potentially a life-threatening disease.  Infection can put people at high risk of death from cirrhosis of the liver as well as liver cancer.  Also, it can cause chronic liver disease, with long-term health effects.

Symptoms include yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice), dark urine, extreme fatigue, nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain.

Anyone who believes that they have been exposed to the disease or who is showing symptoms should consult their healthcare provider.

 

Disclaimer

This blog is provided as an informational resource only.  It is not intended to diagnose or treat any health problem or medical condition and is not a substitute for expert professional medical care.  If you suspect you may have a health problem, please consult your health care provider.

While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this blog, no guarantee is made to that effect.  In addition, this blog does not endorse any drug, treatment, or therapy.