Which one of the following statements is not correct?
[UPSC Civil Services Exam – 2019 Prelims]
(a) Hepatitis B virus is transmitted much like HIV.
(b) Hepatitis B. unlike Hepatitis C, does not have a vaccine.
(c) Globally, the number of people infected with Hepatitis B and C viruses arc several times more than those infected with HIV.
(d) Some of those infected with Hepatitis B and C viruses do not show the symptoms for many years.
Answer: (b)
Explanation:
- Hepatitis B is a viral illness that causes liver damage and is caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV).
- It is transmitted through blood and sexual contact. HBV is similar to HIV in terms of transmission.
- Although there are vaccines to prevent hepatitis B, there is currently no vaccine for hepatitis C. Engerix-B, Heplisav-B, and Recombivax HB are examples of Hepatitis B vaccines available.
- Some people infected with Hepatitis B and C viruses may not show symptoms for several years.
- Viral hepatitis B and C are widespread, affecting 325 million people globally, resulting in approximately 1.4 million deaths annually. Hepatitis is nine times more prevalent than HIV.