Dear Bandit12,
HBV is around 100 times more infective than HIV while HCV is around 10 times. Both of them are transmitted by body fluids and sexual route.
Of the two HBV is more likely to be transmitted sexually. The exact risk is difficult to state as it depends on a number of variables.The risk of transmission is more with anal sex, if any of the partners have genital ulcers or co-existing HIV infection, and if the viral load is very high.
Transmission through comb or gloves is very unlikely. Transmission is more likely with hollow piercing instruments and if the recipient has breaks in his skin.
Both HBV and HCV can be clinically in apparent for variable periods of time before producing symptoms or biochemical abnormalities.
Given your high risk behavior i would suggest you to get an anti HCV, HBsAg and LFT as a screening test. However if you are looking at ruling them 100% then you can go for HCV RNA and HBV DNA analysis.
Only HBV disease can be prevented by vaccination and at present there are no vaccines against HCV. Vaccination should be done only if you do not have HBV infection and it comprises of three doses (0, 1m, 6month) intramuscular (deltoid - hand) injections. Of the brands available Engerix-B is the original brand.
Rest it is always best to avoid high risk behaviors that put you at risk of such diseases
Hope I have answered your query. If you have any follow up queries I will be available to answer them.
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Best Regards,
Dr. Poorna Chandra
heres the other questions i couldn't in the message above ..thx
4.is it possible that i got hepatitis from the exposures i mentioned specially from the sexual one to this day after almost 5 years without any symptoms ,pains,etc?? if u recommend a blood test what test is the best?
5.im going to take the vaccine soon,and i heard there are several vaccines. tell me which is the best and safest?because i don't want to get HIV or anything else..
thanks for the answer doctor...i have decided to take the HBV HCV DNA and RNA to make sure i'm clear of these infections if thats what you're suggesting?
Dear Bandit12,
Yes, you can go for HCV RNA and HBV DNA testing. If they are negative (less than the lower limit of detection), then you do not have these infections.
Best Regards,
Dr. Poorna Chandra.
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