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sexual health info
- sex and the law
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- sex and safety
- sexually transmissible infections (STIs & BBVs)
- what are STIs and BBVs?
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- frequently asked questions
Hepatitis B
The following are some facts you should know about hepatitis B:
- Hepatitis B is a viral infection that can affect the liver.
- It's spread by the exchange of body fluids (e.g. blood, semen, vaginal discharge, anal mucus) during unprotected vaginal, anal or oral sex and sharing needles.
- Hepatitis B is diagnosed by having a blood test.
- Most adults who are newly infected will clear the infection naturally. If you don't, treatments are available.
- Around 0.5 to 1% of Australians carry hepatitis B and might be at risk of serious liver damage.
- You can be vaccinated against hepatitis B.
- If you've been diagnosed with hepatitis B, your sexual partner/s should also see a doctor as soon as possible as treatment and vaccination might prevent them from getting infected.
For more information, read our brochure on hepatitis B.