What is a viral hepatitis? What are the symptoms of viral hepatitis? How is viral hepatitis transmitted? Who is at risk of a fatal hepatitis infection? What about hepatitis B and pregnancy What about hepatitis B and the newborn? How does HIV/AIDS infection interact with hepatitis B and hepatitis C? How is hepatitis diagnosed? Is there a treatment for viral hepatitis? Is a special diet required? How can I prevent the transmission of my viral hepatitis? How can I prevent contracting viral hepatitis? Who is eligible for free vaccination against hepatitis B (HBV)? Who should consider hepatitis A vaccination? Links and References

There are several studies that have demonstrated that it is possible to transmit the hepatitis B virus from the mother to fetus during pregnancy, and from the mother to newborn during delivery. Most gynecologists/obstetricians will test pregnant women early on in their pregnancy and devise a management plan based on the results. Most cases of postpartum neonatal hepatitis B (HBV) infections can be prevented by early screening and treatment with passive and active vaccination (specific antibodies that protect against hepatitis B are given as immunoglobulins, and the hepatitis B vaccine (within 24 hours of birth) is given so as to stimulate personal antibodies against hepatitis B).