The virus also can be passed from mother to baby, usually at the time of birth. The virus is not spread by shaking hands, hugging, sharing food or drink. Most children and about half of all adults who get hepatitis B never feel sick at all. For these people, it takes a blood test to tell if they have the virus. The blood test may not show the infection until 2-6 months after contact with the virus.
Carriers are at risk of liver problems later in life, like liver cancer or cirrhosis.
People who are sick with hepatitis B need rest, fluids, and the right diet. This means avoiding alcohol and some medicines. Certain carriers may need medications such as interferon. Ask your doctor for further information. Routine hepatitis B vaccination of all newborn babies is now recommended.