Hepatitis B & C Tests
Hepatitis B and C are viral infections of the liver. Many people carry these viruses for years without symptoms, yet chronic infection can lead to cirrhosis and liver cancer. Both infections are common in Cameroon, and a simple blood test is the only way to know whether you are infected.
At YGOPH, hepatitis B testing is part of antenatal care, because an infected mother can pass the virus to her baby at birth, and this can largely be prevented. Testing is also recommended for partners and family members of infected people, before some treatments, and for anyone with abnormal liver tests. Hepatitis C can now be cured with tablets taken for a few weeks.
What do hepatitis tests look for?
The hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) test detects part of the virus itself: a positive result means that you are currently infected. If HBsAg is positive, your doctor will request further tests, such as liver enzymes and viral load, to decide on treatment. The hepatitis C test looks for antibodies (anti-HCV); a positive result shows past or current infection and is followed by a viral load test to confirm whether the virus is still present.
- Every pregnant woman, at the first antenatal visit
- Partners, children and household members of a person with hepatitis B
- Abnormal liver tests, jaundice or a history of liver disease
- Before chemotherapy or other treatments that weaken immunity
- People living with HIV, and after a transfusion or needle-stick injury
Good to know
Protecting your baby from hepatitis B
If you have hepatitis B, your baby can be protected. Your doctor may offer antiviral treatment in the last months of pregnancy, and your baby should be vaccinated against hepatitis B as soon as possible after birth. Our paediatricians will advise you on the protection your baby needs and on follow-up testing.
Hepatitis C: a curable infection
Modern antiviral tablets cure most people with hepatitis C after 8 to 12 weeks of treatment. Treatment is usually given outside pregnancy, so a woman diagnosed during pregnancy will be referred for care after delivery, and her baby will be tested later.
Vaccination
A negative HBsAg test is a good opportunity to protect yourself: the hepatitis B vaccine is safe and effective, including during pregnancy when indicated. Children in Cameroon are vaccinated against hepatitis B as part of the pentavalent vaccine given at 6, 10 and 14 weeks.