Viral hepatitis (hepatitis B)
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Hepatitis B is a virus that affects the liver and can lead to acute or chronic (long term) infection.
Important: Contacts
Information on testing, referral and treatment is available by contacting the viral hepatitis service:
- phone 01463 705 086
- or phone 01463 706 243
- email nhsh.viralhepatitisnurses@nhs.scot
About hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is a virus that affects the liver and can lead to acute or chronic (long term) infection. Chronic infection can lead to long-term liver damage (cirrhosis and liver cancer) which can lead to premature death.
However, treatments for Hepatitis B are available through specialist clinics and a vaccine is also available. More information about the vaccine is in 'How do you get hepatitis B and how can it be prevented?' section below.
Further information
- British Liver Trust - the UK's leading liver health charity working to improve liver health for all, and supporting those affected by liver disease or cancer
Important: Hepatitis B guidance at NHS inform
Hepatitis B is a liver infection that’s spread through blood and body fluids. The chance of getting it in the UK is low.
It often doesn’t cause any symptoms in adults and usually passes in a few months without treatment. In children it often persists for years and may eventually cause serious liver damage.
A hepatitis B vaccine is available on the NHS as part of routine child vaccination, or if you’re at high risk.
See more information on hepatitis B at NHS inform:
- symptoms
- when to get medical advice
- diagnosis of hepatitis B
- treatments
- how hepatitis B is spread
- how to prevent hepatitis B
- living with hepatitis B
- complications
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