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Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B carrier rates are 10× higher in the Ethiopian-Israeli community. Chronic carriage leads to cirrhosis and liver cancer without treatment.

Last reviewed: 2026-06-03

Hepatitis B

## Hepatitis B — The Silent Liver Disease

Hepatitis B is a liver disease caused by a virus. In the Ethiopian-Israeli community — **carrier rates of 8-12%** (vs. 0.8% nationally). Most carriers **don't know** they are infected — the disease is silent for decades until serious liver damage develops.

## Transmission

Vertical: mother to baby at birth (causes 90% of chronic carriage). Blood contact: needles, shaving, unsterilised instruments. Sexual contact.

## Free Testing

HBsAg (carrier) test free for all Ethiopian-origin immigrants. All community members should get tested.

## Treatment for Chronic Carriers

Annual monitoring (liver tests + ultrasound). Antiviral medications (tenofovir, entecavir). Vaccination for unvaccinated family members.

## Newborns — Vaccination at Birth

Babies of carrier mothers receive vaccination + HBIG (antibodies) within 12 hours of birth. Critical — don't miss this.

📞 Gastroenterologist referral via GP

Research figures

  • Hepatitis B Carrier Rate

    ×10

    HBV carrier rates in community vs national average

    Source: Hadassah Medical Center · 2022

If you are a hepatitis B carrier — do not donate blood. Inform your doctor.

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