How is hepatitis B primarily transmitted?

Hepatitis B is primarily transmitted through contact with contaminated blood serum. This virus is most commonly spread through activities that involve exposure to infected bodily fluids, such as blood. This includes sharing needles among intravenous drug users, exposure to blood in healthcare settings, and transmission from mother to child during childbirth.

The virus can also be found in smaller amounts in other body fluids, including semen and vaginal secretions, but the predominant and most significant route of transmission remains through blood. This differentiation is crucial in understanding how to prevent the spread of hepatitis B, making awareness of situations where blood exposure occurs especially important for reducing infection risk.

The other transmission methods listed do not align with the primary mechanisms of hepatitis B transmission. Airborne droplets facilitate respiratory infections, contaminated food and water are associated with gastrointestinal infections, and insect bites do not typically serve as vectors for this virus. Understanding these different transmission routes is vital for public health and personal safety regarding hepatitis B.