[Question #12185] Follow up #10518
9 months ago
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So it has now been almost 1 year 3 months since the exposure. I was wondering if Hep B should be a concern since I wasn't tested for it. It looks like most people clear it on their own. I am 28 and generally healthy, not sick much. Is there any reason to test for this being that it's been over a year and low risk? I also have not had any symptoms of hep b. I don't know if I was vaccinated as a kid but it sounds like I likely was from doing some online searching and being born at a hospital in the USA. Thanks for your help in advance doctors.
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Edward W. Hook M.D.
9 months ago
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Welcome back to the Forum. I'm sorry you continue to worry about the exposure you described. If you are 35 or less, you were almost certainly vaccinated for hepatitis B. Further sexually transmission of hepatitis be has become rare because of the impact of the highly successful vaccination program. Finally, as you suggest, if you did acquire hepatitis B, the infection typically resolves without consequences and would have done so long ago.
My advice is to not worry about hepatitis B from the exposure you describe. If my reassurance is not sufficient, you can seek a hepatitis B panel which would measure several different hepatitis B antibodies as well as for the presence of the virus as well. Testing may help to determine whether or not you were vaccinated as well as whether or not you have had hepatitis B as well. To be honest however, my advice is to do your best to move forward without concern. EWH
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9 months ago
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Thank Dr. They were 33 and I am 28 so we were both likely vaccinated. Also being 28 and generally healthy even if I did get it I would think I cleared it. I just wanted to make sure you didn't think there is a medical reasoning to test. I am ready to move forward if you think I am in the clear. Your medical opinion is much appreciated.
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Edward W. Hook M.D.
9 months ago
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Thanks for your thanks. I strongly encourage you to move forward without continuing concern EWH---
9 months ago
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Sounds good. So I took from this that it is negligable risk for a chronic infection and no true reason to test because hep b is rare and likely I was vaccinated and even if I was to have gotten it I would have gotten over it a while back correct? Thanks Dr.
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Edward W. Hook M.D.
9 months ago
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I agree with your plan. I’m glad I was able to help. Take care. Please don’t worry. EWH.---
9 months ago
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Last thing. So all good? No reason to test?
9 months ago
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Sorry for the repeated questions. I was just ensuring that is what you meant when you said don't worry.
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Edward W. Hook M.D.
9 months ago
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I see no reason to test.
Closing this thread now. EWH
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