Hepatitis B Treatment & Vaccine Nepal

Hepatitis B testing in Nepal is highly accurate. HBsAg (surface antigen) test has 99% sensitivity after the window period (45-180 days). Anti-HBc and Anti-HBs tests confirm immune status. We use certified testing equipment following WHO guidelines. Results available within 24-48 hours.

HBsAg test costs Rs. 1000-1500 at STD Nepal. Anti-HBc test costs Rs. 800-1200. Anti-HBs (immunity) test costs Rs. 800-1200. Viral load (HBV DNA) PCR test Rs. 6000-10000. Consultation fee is Rs. 450. All tests include professional counseling.

Acute Hepatitis B resolves on its own in 90% of adults. Chronic Hepatitis B cannot be cured but is manageable with antiviral medications (Entecavir, Tenofovir) that suppress viral replication. Suppressive therapy prevents liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Treatment success rate is 90%+.

HBsAg can be detected 30-60 days after infection. For reliable results, test at least 6-8 weeks after exposure. HBV DNA (PCR) can detect infection as early as 10-14 days but is expensive. We recommend repeat testing 3 months after initial negative result for confirmation.

Many people with Hepatitis B have no symptoms (carriers). When present: fever, fatigue, jaundice (yellowing of eyes/skin), dark urine, abdominal pain, nausea. Symptoms appear 6-8 weeks after infection. Testing is the only definitive way to diagnose. Dr. G.P. Yadav recommends testing if exposed.

Yes, 100% confidential. STD Nepal maintains strict privacy protocols for all testing. Results delivered privately. No information shared without consent. Coded identification system protects identity. All medical records are secure and confidential.

Hepatitis B spreads through blood, semen, and vaginal fluids. Transmission occurs via unprotected sex, sharing injection needles, blood transfusions, occupational needlestick injuries, mother-to-baby during childbirth. Cannot spread through casual contact, saliva, or sharing eating utensils.

Everyone should be vaccinated, ideally at birth. Adults at risk (healthcare workers, people with multiple partners, people who inject drugs, dialysis patients) should be vaccinated. Hepatitis B vaccine is 95% effective. We provide vaccination at STD Nepal for Rs. 800-1200 per dose (3-dose series).

Untreated chronic Hepatitis B can cause liver cirrhosis, hepatic failure, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Early detection and treatment prevent complications. Liver function monitoring (LFTs) important. Anti-viral therapy reduces risk of complications by 80-90%.

Yes, women with Hepatitis B can become pregnant. However, mother-to-baby transmission risk is 10-90% depending on HBeAg status and viral load. Antiviral therapy during pregnancy can reduce transmission to <1%. Newborns receive immunoglobulin and vaccination at birth. Specialist consultation recommended.