The Different Types of Hepatitis A and B Immunizations

9. Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) caused by the hepatitis B virus, or HBV. It is passed along by coming in contact with infected semen, blood, and other body fluids, and results in liver swelling. Patients can suffer from serious liver infections that eventually lead to cancer. For some, the disease becomes chronic, meaning that it may last long-term or even lifelong. Having unprotected sex and using unsterilized needles increases the risk of catching hepatitis B. Babies can develop hepatitis B when they are born to infected mothers.