Quick Answer
A hepatitis B carrier has chronic HBV infection (HBsAg-positive for >6 months). ~95% of adults clear the acute infection, but ~5% become chronic carriers requiring lifelong monitoring for liver cancer and cirrhosis.
- Chronic carrier: HBsAg-positive for >6 months
- Adult clearance: ~95% clear acute infection naturally
- Infant risk: ~90% of infected newborns become chronic carriers
- Monitoring: AFP and ultrasound every 6 months for liver cancer
Context Most Pages Skip
Being a carrier does not mean you are sick. Most chronic carriers have normal liver function and no symptoms.
The Monitoring Protocol
Chronic carriers require lifelong monitoring: alpha-fetoprotein blood test and liver ultrasound every 6 months to detect liver cancer early. Vaccination prevents transmission to others.
⚕️ This page is educational and does not replace advice from a licensed clinician. If you may have been exposed to an STI, get tested — most infections are manageable, and many are fully curable.
Sources & Further Reading
- CDC — Sexually Transmitted Infections
- CDC STI Treatment Guidelines
- WHO — Sexually transmitted infections fact sheet
- MedlinePlus — Sexually Transmitted Diseases
Figures reflect CDC surveillance and WHO estimates; they are population statistics, not personal risk predictions.