While hepatitis B is an infection that can be cleared by the immune system in many cases, it doesn't always go away naturally. In some people, the infection becomes chronic, meaning the virus stays in their body and can cause long-term liver damage.
Here's a breakdown:
- Acute Hepatitis B: Most healthy adults who contract hepatitis B will clear the virus within 6 months, meaning it will go away naturally. This is because their immune system can fight off the infection.
- Chronic Hepatitis B: About 5% of adults who contract hepatitis B will develop chronic hepatitis B. This means the virus remains in their body and can cause liver damage over time. This is more common in infants and people with weakened immune systems.
While there is no cure for chronic hepatitis B, there are effective treatments that can help control the virus and prevent liver damage.
