Discovery of Hepatitis B virus

The discovery of the Hepatitis B virus (HBV) began in the late 1960s when researchers identified a blood marker called the “Australia antigen,” now known as the hepatitis B surface antigen. This marker revealed the presence of a contagious virus causing liver inflammation. By early 1970s, scientists confirmed that HBV was the cause of hepatitis B. Their work involved detecting the virus in blood samples and understanding how it spreads. This breakthrough allowed for better diagnosis, prevention, and development of vaccines, significantly reducing hepatitis B-related illnesses worldwide.