Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B is an infection of the liver caused by the hepatitis B virus. Blood and semen can be infected. The disease is very contagious, even if the infected person does not have any symptoms. You can get the virus through contact with contaminated needles and syringes, unsterile medical instruments, unsafe blood products, and donor organs. It can also spread through unclean tattoos, piercings, razors, or ear piercings, and through unprotected sex. The virus can also be passed from mother to child during pregnancy and childbirth.

Where is hepatitis B found?

The disease can be found all over the world, including in the Netherlands. High-risk areas (where about 10% or more of the population is infected) include Sub-Saharan Africa, large parts of Asia, and parts of the Amazon region. Hepatitis B is also more common in Eastern Europe, the Mediterranean region, and the Middle East compared to the Netherlands.

What are the symptoms?

Approximately two-thirds of cases show no obvious signs of illness. If there are symptoms, they usually start two to three months after infection. Symptoms can include:

• Headache
• Non-specific stomach pain
• Tiredness
• Loss of appetite
• Mild fever
• Jaundice with dark urine
• Chronic liver inflammation (rarely)

How can you prevent hepatitis B?

A vaccination can provide long-term protection. It's recommended for anyone at higher risk due to their job, travel plans, or sexual activity.

More information

If you would like to learn more about hepatitis B, please check out the RIVM information page here: Hepatitis B | RIVM.