What are symptoms of acute Hepatitis B?
Not everyone has symptoms with acute Hepatitis B.  Most adults have symptoms that appear within three months of exposure.  Symptoms can last from a few weeks to several months and includes:

• Fever
• Nausea
• Abdominal pain
• Gray-colored stools
• Dark urine
• Jaundice

How does Hepatitis B spread?
Hepatitis B is spread through the contact of blood or body fluids of you and an infected person.  It can be spread by:

• A Hepatitis B-infected mother to her child during birth
• Having unprotected sex
• Having contact with blood or open sores of an HBV-infected person
• Getting bit by a Hepatitis B-infected person
• Sharing items such as razors, toothbrushes, or washcloths
• Using the same immunization needle with others
• Using unsterilized needles for body piercing or tattooing

Hepatitis B is NOT spread by:

• Eating food prepared by an infected person
• Kissing or hugging
• Sneezing or coughing
• Sharing silverware, plates, or cups
• Breastfeeding

How do I know if I have Hepatitis B?
The only way to know is through blood tests.  Pregnant mothers should have blood tests done during pregnancy and at delivery by your health-care provider.

Who should be tested for Hepatitis B?
Hepatitis B testing is recommended for:

• People born in many Asian countries, especially Southeast Asia
• People whose parents were born in Asian countries, especially Southeast Asia.
• People who live with someone who has Hepatitis B
  

Why is Hepatitis B so serious in pregnant women?
Hepatitis B-infected mother can transmit the disease to their babies at the time of birth.  Without proper vaccinations, many of them develop life-long Hepatitis B infections.