Is "small three positives" contagious?
Oct 30, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Gao Jun
Introduction
In general, "small three positives" (a term referring to a specific pattern of hepatitis B markers) is a condition caused by the hepatitis B virus. Individuals carrying the hepatitis B virus are infectious. The virus is primarily transmitted through blood, sexual contact, and mother-to-child transmission. In special circumstances, infection may also occur through broken skin or mucous membranes, or by sharing personal hygiene items. However, casual contact such as handshaking or hugging usually does not transmit the hepatitis B virus.
Generally, "three positive" (commonly known as "small three positive") refers to a condition caused by the hepatitis B virus, characterized by positive results for hepatitis B surface antigen, hepatitis B e antibody, and hepatitis B core antibody, while the hepatitis B e antigen is negative. Individuals carrying the hepatitis B virus are potentially infectious. A detailed analysis is as follows:
The hepatitis B virus is primarily transmitted through blood, sexual contact, and mother-to-child transmission. If hepatitis B virus DNA is detected in the blood of a person with the "small three positive" pattern, it indicates active viral replication within the body and a relatively high level of infectivity. Additionally, long-term close contact with such individuals—especially under conditions involving broken skin or mucous membranes, or sharing personal hygiene items—may also lead to infection. However, it is important to note that if hepatitis B virus DNA is undetectable in the patient's blood, this suggests that viral replication is inactive or has stopped, resulting in very low or almost no infectivity. In daily life, casual contact such as handshakes and hugs generally does not transmit the hepatitis B virus. Moreover, individuals who have been vaccinated against hepatitis B and have developed sufficient protective antibodies are effectively protected from infection.
In daily life, maintaining good personal hygiene, frequent handwashing, changing clothes regularly, showering routinely, engaging in moderate exercise, and undergoing regular follow-up examinations can contribute significantly to overall health.
