Hepatitis B: a viral infection that affects the liver
Hepatitis B is an infection caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV), which primarily affects the liver. In some people it may occur without noticeable symptoms or with flu-like discomfort, while in others it can lead to persistent liver inflammation and, over time, increase the risk of serious complications.
The virus is transmitted mainly through blood and other bodily fluids, and its course can range from self-limited acute infections to chronic carrier states. For this reason, hepatitis B is considered a major public health concern and a key focus of surveillance and prevention programs worldwide.
Key points about hepatitis B