Of the Following, Who is Most Likely to Develop a Chronic

Question

Of the following, who is most likely to develop a chronic infection with hepatitis B virus?
A) children between the ages of 2 and 12
B) newborns
C) females at puberty
D) young adults
E) the elderly

Accepted Answer

Newborns are at the highest risk for developing chronic hepatitis B due to their immature immune system and vulnerability to infections. In contrast, adults typically have a more robust immune response and are more likely to clear the virus on their own. Children between ages 2 and 12 are also at higher risk than adults, but not as high as newborns. Females at puberty and young adults have similar risk as adults, while the elderly may have a reduced risk due to prior exposure or vaccination.