Hepatitis is the inflammation of the liver, caused by alcohol and drug use, bacteria, or toxins. Hepatitis B is a contagious virus that also causes liver infection. The Hepatitis B disease can be either an acute or a chronic liver disease that ranges in severity from a mild to a lifelong illness.

The Hepatitis B virus can be transmitted at birth from an infected mother, by sharing contaminated needles, and by having direct contact with blood, semen, or sores of an infected person. Sexual intercourse is the most common way Hepatitis B is spread, and many people who have Hepatitis B are unaware that they are infected. Healthcare workers are especially at high risk of contracting Hepatitis B and/or other bloodborne pathogens due to the high-level exposure of blood, bodily fluids, and needles.

The Hepatitis B virus can survive 7 days outside of the body and people who are infected, but show no symptoms, can spread the virus. People who have acute Hepatitis B can show no symptoms to mild-like flu like symptoms that can last up to 6 months. People who have chronic Hepatitis B can show no symptoms, however, will develop serious liver conditions such as liver cancer or cirrhosis until Hepatitis B is detected. Blood analysis and other tests by a healthcare professional is a way to diagnose this disease.

For a listing of Multi-Clean liquid disinfectants or disinfecting wipes that are effective on Hepatitis B, please visit Multi-Clean’s Infection Control webpage.

For more information about Hepatitis, check out Multi-Clean’s Infection Control website or the CDC website.