Hepatitis B (hep B) is a liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV) and is transmitted through contact with infected blood and certain body fluids such as semen and vaginal fluids. Here are the main ways you can get hep B:

• From mother to child at birth (perinatal transmission), which is common in areas where hepatitis B is widespread

• Sexual contact without using protection with an infected person, including vaginal, anal, or oral sex

• Sharing needles or other drug-injection equipment , including needles used for tattoos, piercings, or drug use

• Exposure to infected blood through needlestick injuries, sharing razors, toothbrushes, nail clippers, or other sharp objects contaminated with infected blood

• Blood transfusions or medical procedures with unsterilized or contaminated equipment, though this is rare in countries that screen blood donations

• Close household contact with someone who has chronic hepatitis B, especially in early childhood

Hepatitis B is not spread through casual contact such as hugging, coughing, sneezing, sharing food, or using the same toilet

. Vaccination is the best protection against hepatitis B, especially for people at higher risk such as healthcare workers, people with multiple sexual partners, drug users, and infants born to infected mothers

. In summary, hep B is primarily transmitted through blood and sexual fluids, from mother to child at birth, sexual contact, sharing needles or contaminated sharp objects, and exposure to infected blood