A molecular surface model of the hepatitis B virus (HBV), a DNA virus which replicates in the liver causing liver inflammation, jaundice, vomiting and in some cases cirrhosis or death. Hepatitis B is transmitted through exposure to infected blood or body fluids, though it cannot spread by means of physical contact such as shaking hands, coughing or sneezing. Use of contaminated needles or blood transfusions carry the greatest risk of passing on the infection, while scheduled vaccinations have been developed to prevent infection.