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How is hepatitis B transmitted?

Sep 03, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Gao Jun
Introduction
Hepatitis B refers to hepatitis B viral infection. Under normal circumstances, hepatitis B is a liver disease caused by infection with the hepatitis B virus. The main routes of transmission include bloodborne transmission, mother-to-child transmission, sexual contact transmission, bodily fluid transmission, and iatrogenic transmission. It is recommended that uninfected individuals enhance their protection by receiving the hepatitis B vaccine and avoid sharing personal hygiene items in daily life.

Hepatitis B refers to hepatitis B viral infection. Under normal circumstances, hepatitis B is a liver disease caused by the hepatitis B virus. The main routes of transmission include blood transmission, mother-to-child transmission, sexual contact transmission, body fluid contact transmission, and iatrogenic transmission. A detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Blood transmission: The hepatitis B virus can be transmitted through blood. Common scenarios include sharing syringes contaminated with the virus, receiving blood or blood products that have not undergone rigorous screening, and undergoing invasive procedures such as tattooing, ear piercing, or tooth extraction using non-sterilized instruments.

2. Mother-to-child transmission: Mothers infected with the hepatitis B virus may transmit the virus to the fetus or newborn during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding after delivery. If standard mother-to-child transmission prevention measures are not taken, the risk of infection increases.

3. Sexual contact transmission: Unprotected sexual contact with an individual infected with hepatitis B virus easily leads to viral transmission. The virus can enter the body through genital mucous membranes. Individuals with multiple sexual partners or those who have other sexually transmitted diseases face an increased risk of infection.

4. Body fluid contact transmission: Hepatitis B virus exists in body fluids such as saliva, semen, and vaginal secretions. If one comes into contact with these contaminated fluids and has broken skin or mucous membranes, the virus may enter the body. For example, sharing contaminated personal hygiene items such as toothbrushes, razors, or towels can lead to transmission.

5. Iatrogenic transmission: During medical procedures, if dental instruments, surgical instruments, acupuncture needles, or other medical devices that have not been thoroughly sterilized are used, or if medical waste is improperly handled, hepatitis B virus transmission may occur.

It is recommended that uninfected individuals enhance protection by receiving hepatitis B vaccination, avoid sharing personal hygiene items in daily life, and choose qualified medical institutions for invasive procedures. Infected individuals should take protective measures to avoid transmitting the virus to others, thereby jointly reducing the risk of viral spread.

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