The incubation period of hepatitis B
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When you become infected with an STI such as hepatitis B, you usually notice little or nothing. But even if you do get symptoms, it doesn't happen right away. The period between infection and the onset of the disease is called the incubation period. We explain more about the incubation period of hepatitis B.
What is the incubation period of hepatitis B?
The incubation period of hepatitis B can range from 2 weeks to 6 months. On average, it is 2 to 3 months. This means that most people develop symptoms within that period, but sometimes it takes considerably longer.
Symptoms of hepatitis B
A hepatitis B infection often progresses without obvious symptoms. This makes this STI extra insidious: You can infect someone without even knowing it yourself.
If symptoms do occur, they may include fatigue, fever, feeling fluish, jaundice and abdominal pain.
Hepatitis B without symptoms
The fact that many people with hepatitis B do notcomplaints have, even after the incubation period, does not mean that the infection is harmless. The virus can silently damage your liver, which in the long run can even lead to liver cancer, for example. That is why it is important to always test if you have been at risk for hepatitis B, even if you feel healthy. Treatment can help prevent liver damage and prevent you from passing the virus unnoticed to others.
When to test for hepatitis B?
Have you had unprotected sex or otherwise been at risk for hepatitis B? Or do you have symptoms that resemble hepatitis B? Then test starting 8 weeks after the risk moment. We also call this 'waiting period' the window phase; during this period the bacteria grow fast enough to be analyzed properly in the lab. Not sure if you're at risk or when it's best to test? Then use our free STI Testing Guide for personalized advice.
Resources
This page has been carefully compiled with information from official and independent health organizations:
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