Can Saliva Transmit Hepatitis B? the Risks

Q: Can Saliva Transmit Hepatitis B? the Risks

Hello： In response to your questions. <br>1. <br>Hepatitis B is primarily transmitted through serum routes, including vertical transmission from mother to child (occurring during childbirth), sexual transmission, and sharing of needles (such as in drug injection or unclean needle

Can it be transmitted through saliva?

If my girlfriend is a carrier of hepatitis B and both of our mouths have sores, is there a risk of transmission?

Yanjingzi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2003/06/04

Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Internal Medicine

Hello: In response to your questions.
1.
Hepatitis B is primarily transmitted through serum routes, including vertical transmission from mother to child (occurring during childbirth), sexual transmission, and sharing of needles (such as in drug injection or unclean needles).
Oral transmission (referring to transmission through food consumption) is currently believed not to cause Hepatitis B, possibly due to insufficient viral load.
2.
The bodily fluids of Hepatitis B carriers can contain detectable surface antigens.
These include blood, saliva, semen, breast milk, gastric fluid, tears, sweat, and tissue fluid, among others.
However, the viral load and pathogenicity may vary.
Generally, light kissing is not considered infectious.
3.
If there are ulcers in the oral cavity along with being a Hepatitis B carrier, transmission through kissing is possible, especially deep kissing.
Of course, the risk is presumed to be lower than that of sexual intercourse or sharing needles; however, caution is still advised.
4.
The diagnosis and treatment of Hepatitis B have improved significantly in recent years, so it is advisable to discuss this with your family physician.

Reply Date: 2003/06/04

More Info

Hepatitis B is primarily transmitted through contact with infectious body fluids, including blood, semen, and vaginal secretions. While saliva does contain the hepatitis B virus (HBV), the concentration is significantly lower compared to blood. Therefore, the risk of transmission through saliva is considerably less than through other fluids. However, it is important to understand that if both partners have open sores or cuts in their mouths, there is a potential risk for transmission, albeit lower than other routes.

In your situation, if your girlfriend is a carrier of hepatitis B and both of you have oral wounds, there is a theoretical risk of transmission. The presence of blood in saliva, especially if there are cuts or abrasions, can increase the likelihood of the virus being transmitted. However, the actual risk of contracting hepatitis B through saliva is generally considered low compared to other methods of transmission, such as sexual contact or sharing needles.

To further understand the risks, it is essential to consider the following points:
1. Viral Load: The risk of transmission is higher when the viral load in the carrier's blood is high. If your girlfriend has a high HBV DNA level, the risk of transmission increases, even through less common routes.

2. Immune Status: If you have been vaccinated against hepatitis B or have developed immunity (e.g., through previous infection), your risk of contracting the virus is significantly reduced. It is crucial to know your hepatitis B status and whether you have protective antibodies.

3. Preventive Measures: If you are concerned about transmission, it is advisable to take preventive measures. This includes avoiding intimate contact when either partner has open sores or cuts. Additionally, using barriers such as dental dams or condoms during oral sex can help reduce the risk of transmission.

4. Testing and Vaccination: If you have not been tested for hepatitis B, it is wise to do so. If you are not immune, consider getting vaccinated. The hepatitis B vaccine is highly effective in preventing infection.

5. Consulting Healthcare Providers: It is always best to discuss your concerns with a healthcare provider who can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation. They can offer guidance on testing, vaccination, and safe practices to minimize the risk of transmission.

In summary, while the risk of transmitting hepatitis B through saliva is low, it is not zero, especially if there are open wounds involved. Taking preventive measures, knowing your hepatitis B status, and consulting with healthcare professionals are essential steps to ensure both your health and that of your partner.

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