References UK clinical guidance from the NHS, the British HIV Association (BHIVA), and the British Association for Sexual Health and HIV (BASHH). Last updated: April 2026.
Hepatitis B is a viral infection that affects the liver. It spreads through blood, sexual fluids and from mother to baby. Many adults clear acute infection naturally, but a minority develop chronic hepatitis B that needs long-term management. Vaccination is highly effective and part of the UK childhood schedule.
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Key Facts
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Cause | Hepatitis B virus (HBV) |
| Transmission | Sex, blood, mother-to-baby |
| Vaccine | Yes — highly effective |
| Chronic infection rate (adults) | Under 5% |
| Cure | Not routine — suppressive treatment available |
| Complications | Cirrhosis, liver cancer |
Symptoms
Often no symptoms. Acute infection can cause:
- Jaundice
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Dark urine
- Abdominal pain
Treatment
- Acute — usually resolves naturally in adults
- Chronic — antiviral suppression (tenofovir, entecavir)
- Monitoring for liver damage and cancer
Prevention
- Vaccination — routine in UK childhood schedule
- Free for at-risk adults
- Condoms reduce sexual transmission
- Don’t share needles
Read more: Hepatitis B and HIV | Hepatitis B testing | Hepatitis B risks
Frequently Asked Questions
Is hepatitis B curable?
Not routinely — but suppressible with treatment.
Is there a vaccine?
Yes — highly effective and long-lasting.
Can I breastfeed with hepatitis B?
Yes, after baby receives vaccine at birth.
Related reading
- Blood Test for Syphilis, Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C
- Can You Die From Hepatitis B?
- What Is Hepatitis A?
- Hepatitis B Core Antibody Test Explained
- Hepatitis B Test Kits: What to Know
Sources
- NHS — Sexual health conditions
- BASHH — UK clinical guidelines for STI management
- British HIV Association (BHIVA) — HIV treatment guidelines
- Terrence Higgins Trust — sexual health information
- UK Health Security Agency — STI surveillance data
Steve Page is a recognised expert on Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) and STD treatments, having published numerous articles in peer-reviewed journals and presented his research at conferences around the world. He has an in-depth understanding of the latest medical research on STDs, and is an advocate for the development of new treatments and protocols to improve the health of those affected. In addition to his research, he has dedicated his career to understanding the causes and symptoms of STDs, as well as how to best treat those impacted.
