What is a common effect of hepatitis B infection?

Hepatitis B is a viral infection that primarily affects the liver and is known to be bloodborne, meaning it can be transmitted through blood and other bodily fluids. When a person is infected with hepatitis B, the virus can cause inflammation and damage to the liver, which may lead to more severe liver-related complications over time.

Unlike options such as severe allergic reactions, respiratory failure, or dehydration, which are not directly tied to the hepatitis B infection itself, the bloodborne nature of hepatitis B is central to its transmission and impact. This characteristic highlights how the virus can spread through means such as sharing needles, sexual contact, or from mother to child during childbirth, placing it firmly within the category of bloodborne infections. Therefore, recognizing hepatitis B as a severe infection that is bloodborne is critical for understanding its transmission risks and health effects.