Hepatitis B
Clinical Manifestations
A viral inflammation of the liver that generally presents with malaise, loss of appetite, low grade fever, nausea, abdominal pain, gastrointestinal upset, and in some cases, jaundice and light-colored stools. The onset is usually more insidious than Hepatitis A. Hepatitis B is usually transmitted through sexual contact and drug-users sharing contaminated needles. It may also be transmitted from an infected mother to her infant at the time of birth. Transmission can occur anytime blood, or certain other body fluids such as semen and vaginal secretions from an infected person, come in direct contact with a susceptible person’s mucous membranes, broken skin, or through contact with a contaminated sharp object, such as a needlestick. Infection has been acquired through human bites.
Incubation Period
From 45-160 days; average of 90 days.
Period of Communicability
Begins several weeks before symptoms appear. In those persons who recover and do not become chronic carriers, the total period ranges from several weeks to a few months. Persons who do not recover from the disease (chronic carriers) remain infectious.
Applicable Laws For Indiana Schools
Surfaces and equipment contaminated with blood or other potentially infectious body fluids, or both, shall be appropriately disinfected, or when required, sterilized prior to use. (410 IAC 1-2.3-73(3))
School Nursing Implications
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Ensure infected child is being provided medical care.
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A safe and effective vaccine is available.
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Many students have been vaccinated and have protective antibodies against the disease.
Related Sites/Additional Information
http://www.nih.gov/health/InformationIndex/HealthIndex/Pubincov.htm
www.cdc.gov/ncidod/diseases/hepatitis/b/index.htm
www.niaid.nih.gov/publications/hepatitis.htm
www.cdc.gov/nip/publications/pink/hepb.pdf
Hepatitis B Quick Facts
- Where do I obtain a copy of an Indiana birth or death certificate?
- What is INShape Indiana?
- How do I create an INShape account?
- Where is the INShape Indiana login page?
- Can I talk to an INShape Indiana fitness trainer about my specific health needs?
- Can I talk to an INShape Indiana nutritionist about my specific health needs?
- Is the old INShape Indiana tracking system still available?
- As an adopted child, how do I get information about my birth parents?
- How do I request a representative from INShape Indiana to attend my event?
- How can I find out more about the flu epidemic?
