Hepatitis B
An estimated 6–8% of Tanzanians carry hepatitis B. Most are undiagnosed. Chronic infection causes cirrhosis and liver cancer, but it is preventable with vaccination.
Always confirm diagnosis and treatment with a qualified health professional.
Compiled from public health references including the CDC, Mayo Clinic, WebMD, the World Health Organization, and the Tanzania Ministry of Health.
Overview
Hepatitis B is a viral infection attacking the liver, spread through blood, unprotected sex, and from mother to child during birth. Tanzania is in a high-prevalence zone. Chronic hepatitis B — when infection lasts more than 6 months — leads to liver damage over decades. The hepatitis B vaccine is safe, effective, and given free to all newborns.
Common Symptoms
Acute infection (new):
- Yellowing of skin and eyes (jaundice)
- Dark urine, pale stools
- Fatigue, nausea, vomiting
- Stomach pain
Chronic infection: Usually no symptoms for years — liver damage occurs silently.
Treatment
- Acute hepatitis B: Supportive care (rest, fluids, avoid alcohol)
- Chronic hepatitis B: Antiviral medication (tenofovir or entecavir) reduces liver damage and cancer risk; not curative but controls the virus
- Regular liver function tests and ultrasound to monitor for complications
- Avoid alcohol completely
- Screening for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) available at major facilities
Prevention
- Hepatitis B vaccine: 3 doses; given free to all newborns at birth, 6 weeks, and 14 weeks. Catch-up vaccination for unvaccinated adults.
- Use condoms during sex
- Do not share needles, razors, or toothbrushes
- Ensure sterilised equipment for medical/dental procedures
- Test during antenatal care — mother-to-child transmission is preventable
Cost & NHIF Coverage
Public facilities: Screening is increasingly available at subsidised cost, especially through antenatal care; vaccination is part of the routine childhood immunisation schedule and is free.
NHIF: Covers screening, liver function monitoring, and antiviral treatment at accredited facilities as a chronic condition.
Private facilities: Screening test TZS 15,000–35,000; ongoing antiviral therapy and liver monitoring for chronic cases can run TZS 20,000–80,000+ per month.
Estimated ranges — actual cost varies by facility. Confirm with reception and check your insurer's coverage before treatment.
Where to Get Care
Confirm with reception that the facility treats this condition and that your insurer is accepted before visiting.