Does Hepatitis B Spread Through Kissing?
Hepatitis B is a contagious liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). It can cause mild illness, or it can lead to a serious, long-term illness that can cause liver damage, liver failure, and even death. The virus is spread through contact with the blood or body fluids of an infected person.
Kissing can be a way of spreading hepatitis B, but it is not common. The virus is not spread through saliva, so kissing alone is not a risk factor. However, if an infected person has open sores or bleeding gums, and they are sharing saliva with someone else, the risk of transmission increases. Also, if someone has blood on their mouth or lips, and they kiss someone else, the virus can be spread.
Blood-to-blood contact is the most common way that hepatitis B is spread. This can happen through sharing needles or syringes, or through having unprotected sex with an infected person. It can also be spread from mother to baby during childbirth.
It is important to take steps to prevent the spread of hepatitis B, including getting vaccinated, avoiding sharing needles or syringes, and practicing safe sex. If you think you may have been exposed to the virus, it is important to get tested.