| Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a significant global health issue, particularly prevalent in sub-Saharan Africa and the Asian-Pacific region. The clinical spectrum of HBV infection includes acute, chronic, and fulminant hepatitis, with severe long-term outcomes such as liver cirrhosis, hepatic decompensation, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Effective prevention and treatment strategies as well as actions are crucial for global control. Achieving this requires a deeper understanding of the diverse profiles of HBV infection. Like other infectious diseases, successful HBV infection relies on three components: a source of infection, a susceptible host, and an established route of transmission. The most cost-effective way to control hepatitis B is to prevent infection in susceptible individuals by interrupting transmission routes and immunizing those at risk. Significant efforts from governments, health professionals, and society are essential. Additionally, treating those already infected with HBV can reduce the risk of transmission and the development of severe long-term outcomes. Despite the availability of effective immunoprophylaxis and anti-HBV treatments, chronic HBV infection remains a major threat in many parts of the world. Challenges to eliminating HBV include suboptimal vaccination coverage in developing countries, a large number of undiagnosed chronic carriers, and limited access to treatment in highly endemic areas. Overcoming these barriers is essential for achieving optimal global control of HBV. Furthermore, developing a simple and effective treatment strategy is crucial if we aim to eliminate HBV infection by 2030. |
