Prevention Is Key: Protect Yourself from Hepatitis B
Even without symptoms, Hepatitis B can still cause serious liver damage. Testing at least once in your lifetime is recommended for all adults — and more often for those at risk of exposure
Hepatitis B is a vaccine-preventable liver infection caused by the Hepatitis B virus (HBV). Left untreated, it can lead to serious health issues, including chronic liver disease, liver cancer, and liver failure. The most effective way to protect yourself is vaccination — and according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), all adults aged 19–59 should receive the Hepatitis B vaccine. The CDC also recommends that every adult be tested for Hepatitis B at least once in their lifetime.
Why Vaccination and Testing Matter
Hepatitis B is transmitted through bodily fluids such as blood, semen, and vaginal secretions. It can spread during sexual contact, childbirth, or by sharing needles and other injection equipment. Because many people with Hepatitis B have no symptoms, the infection can go undetected for years — making testing a critical tool for early detection and prevention.
In the United States, an estimated 580,000 to 2.4 million people are living with Hepatitis B, and two-thirds of them may not know it. Early detection through testing and protection through vaccination can prevent serious long-term health consequences.
Who Should Get the Vaccine?
The Hepatitis B vaccine is recommended for:
All adults aged 19–59
Adults 60+ who are at risk or wish to be protected
Infants and children (as part of routine childhood vaccination)
People at higher risk, including:
Infants born to Hepatitis B-positive mothers
People born in regions with higher HBV prevalence (>2%)
People who use injectable drugs
People living with HIV or Hepatitis C
People with multiple sexual partners or who do not practice safe sex
People undergoing dialysis
The vaccine has been safely used for more than 30 years and is highly effective in preventing infection.
Why Testing Is Important
Even without symptoms, Hepatitis B can still cause serious liver damage. Testing at least once in your lifetime is recommended for all adults — and more often for those at risk of exposure. When present, symptoms of acute infection can include:
Fever
Fatigue
Loss of appetite
Nausea or vomiting
Abdominal pain
Dark urine or clay-colored stools
Joint pain
Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
Other Ways to Prevent Hepatitis B
Practice safe sex by using condoms
Avoid sharing needles or injection equipment
Do not share personal items like razors or toothbrushes with an infected person
Five Reasons to Get the Hepatitis B Vaccine
Prevent serious illness — Avoid liver cancer, liver failure, and other complications.
Stop the spread — Protect yourself and those around you.
Safe and effective — Backed by decades of research and use.
Travel protection — Required for entry into some countries.
Community health — Reduces transmission and protects vulnerable populations.
Take Action Today
Talk to your healthcare provider about getting vaccinated and tested for Hepatitis B. Protecting yourself also protects your family, friends, and community.