Question
Does a father who is a general virus carrier pass it on to his child?
Answer
The hepatitis B virus (HBV) is transmitted through blood and bodily fluids, not through genetic inheritance. Therefore, if the father is a carrier of the hepatitis B virus, it does not necessarily mean that the virus will be passed on to the child. However, if the father’s HBV test is positive, there is a possibility of transmitting the virus to the child during childbirth or through daily contact with the child. To prevent this situation, the mother can receive immune globulin and hepatitis B vaccine injections during pregnancy, during childbirth, and after the child’s birth. In addition, the child should also receive the hepatitis B vaccine as soon as possible after birth. If the father’s HBV test is positive, it should be avoided to share personal items such as toothbrushes and razors with the child, and attention should be paid to hygiene in daily life to reduce the risk of virus transmission.