Hepatitis B
How do I know I’ve got it?
Initially when people get hepatitis B they may be unwell with a fever, muscle aches and feel a bit like they have flu. In addition there skin and eyes may go yellow - ‘get jandiced’.
These symptoms can get worse and require treatment, or they can get better themselves. If they get better then you may still carry the virus which means you could get ill with it again in the future. You could also pass on it on to any future partners.
How do you get it?
- From sexual contact with someone who has the infection
- Through contact with someone’s blood that is infected
- From mother to baby
Treating sexual partners
It is essential that your sexual partner(s) are tested and vaccinated if necessary.
How do I avoid getting Hepatitis B?
Vaccination is available for Hepatitis B. This is available from your GP, the GUM clinic, and some community services such as needle exchange programmes. Once you are vaccinated it is important that your blood is checked to show that you responded to the vaccine.
The best way to avoid transmission of sexually transmitted diseases is to abstain from sexual contact, or to be in a long-term mutually monogamous relationship with a partner who has been tested and is known to be uninfected. Practicing safer sex will reduce your risk of getting a sexually transmitted infection. This means using a condom for oral, vaginal and anal sex.
For more information and support in relation to sexual health issues, please contact or make an appointment with one of our local services