Is Australian Antigen A Contagious Infection?

Posted on Thu, 19 Jun 2014

Question: My brother in law had tested positive for Australian Antigen in the year 2005, My sister is married to him since last 7 years, she did a blood test few days back and her test result was negative. Does she and her child still have a risk from my brother in law. Please advice how should I immune my Sister and her child.

Answered by Dr. Mahesh Koregol (30 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Vaccine

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

I read your query and I understand your concerns.

Following is my reply:

1) Australian antigen also called HBsAg is a contagious infection and spreads by injections or sexual routes.

2) If your brother in law has developed antibodies ( which can be tested by blood test), no need to worry as transmission chances are less.

3) I hope he has taken vaccination or immunoglobulin treatment after detection in 2005.

4) I believe it is safe as well as best option for your sister and her kid to get immunized by taking vaccine to reduce the chance of transmission at no risk.

5) Please see a physician who will give you one dose of vaccine now and another dose of vaccine ( booster dose ) after 6 months. These vaccines are easily available and affordable.

Let me know if you have anymore questions.

Regards,
Dr. Mahesh Koregol

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Mahesh Koregol (4 minutes later)

Thank you.

2) If your brother in law has developed antibodies ( which can be tested by blood test), no need to worry as transmission chances are less. ----- Can you confirm which blood test must be done to get this checked.

5) Please see a physician who will give you one dose of vaccine now and another dose of vaccine ( booster dose ) after 6 months. These vaccines are easily available and affordable ----- You mean this vaccine needs to be given to my sister and her child. Also please confirm the approximate cost of this vaccine in the market.

Answered by Dr. Mahesh Koregol (24 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Vaccine

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

The blood test for HbsAg antibody is not done routinely and done in few labs only. Hence will have to be prescribed by a physician who knows your city well. It is better to consult a gastroenterologist than a physician if a gastroenterologist is available in your city who will examine your brother inlaw and check his liver by palpating with hand.

Yes. The vaccine better if given to your sister and her child. It costs about one thousand rupees.

Regards

Note: For further follow up on related General & Family Physician Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar