Hepatitis B is one of several types of hepatitis (liver inflammation). It is caused by the hepatitis B virus, which is spread through infected bodily fluids. A few symptoms of hepatitis B include nausea, diarrhea, yellowing of the skin or eyes (also known as jaundice), and a low-grade fever. Among the people who are at risk for hepatitis B are intravenous drug users, children of immigrants from disease-endemic areas, infants born to infected mothers, and healthcare workers.

 

Many acute cases of hepatitis B get better on their own, but chronic hepatitis B often requires treatment with medications. Some examples of medications that can be used to treat chronic hepatitis B include telbivudine, entecavir, and lamivudine. The best way to prevent hepatitis B is through the hepatitis B vaccine.