Is Hepatitis B 'small three positives' contagious?
I have a friend who has been diagnosed with mild hepatitis B (small three positives), and I want to visit him in the hospital, but I am very afraid of getting infected. I would like to know whether mild hepatitis B (small three positives) is contagious.
Doctor's answer (1)
HBV small three positives refers to a condition in which a person infected with the hepatitis B virus tests positive for three markers: hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), hepatitis B e antibody (HBeAb), and hepatitis B core antibody (HBcAb). The infectivity mainly depends on the replication level of the hepatitis B viral DNA.
If the hepatitis B virus DNA test is positive and the viral load is high, individuals with the small three positives pattern are infectious and can transmit the virus to others through routes such as blood, mother-to-child transmission, and sexual contact. Conversely, if the hepatitis B virus DNA test is negative, the infectivity is low or relatively non-infectious.
General everyday contact, such as handshaking, hugging, or sharing meals, does not directly transmit the hepatitis B virus. However, to protect both themselves and others, individuals with hepatitis B should avoid sharing items that may lead to blood exposure and should undergo regular medical monitoring to stay informed about changes in their condition.
If concerned, it is recommended to seek medical advice promptly.
