Question 100

Let's analyze each statement regarding Hepatitis B and C viruses:

• A) Hepatitis B virus is transmitted much like HIV. This statement is correct. Both Hepatitis B virus (HBV) and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) are transmitted through similar routes: unprotected sexual contact, sharing contaminated needles or syringes, from mother to child during birth, and through exposure to infected blood (e.g., via transfusions before proper screening, or contaminated medical equipment).
• B) Hepatitis B, unlike Hepatitis C, does not have a vaccine. This statement is incorrect. This is the false statement. An effective and safe vaccine for Hepatitis B has been available for decades and is part of routine childhood immunization programs globally. In contrast, as of the time this question was set and beyond, there is no widely available vaccine for Hepatitis C (HCV).
• C) Globally, the number of people infected with Hepatitis B and C viruses are several times more than those infected with HIV. This statement is correct. According to global health organizations (like WHO), the prevalence of chronic Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C infections worldwide is indeed significantly higher than the number of people living with HIV. These viral hepatitis infections affect hundreds of millions of people globally.
• D) Some of those infected with Hepatitis B and C viruses do not show the symptoms for many years. This statement is correct. Both HBV and HCV can cause chronic infections that are often asymptomatic for many years or even decades. Infected individuals may not know they have the virus until liver damage (like cirrhosis or liver cancer) becomes severe, making early diagnosis and treatment challenging.

Therefore, the statement that is NOT correct is B.