What should you know about how hepatitis B is spread?

Transmission can happen during sexual contact, through shared needles, or from parent to baby during birth. It may also follow an accidental needle injury or use of instruments that were not properly sterilised for tattooing, piercing, or medical care. The virus is not passed by casual touch, coughing, or sharing a meal. Symptoms may be absent, while others develop [Fatigue](/symptoms/fatigue/) or [Dark Urine](/symptoms/dark-urine/). See [Hepatitis B](/conditions/hepatitis-b/) for broader information.

Keep personal items that can carry tiny amounts of blood, such as razors and toothbrushes, separate. Choose sterile equipment for injections, piercings, and tattoos. Discuss testing with a clinician after a possible exposure, particularly during pregnancy or before a new sexual relationship. A [Liver Function Test](/treatments/diagnostics-and-screening/liver-function-test/) can help assess liver health, while [Hepatitis B Vaccination](/treatments/preventive-care-and-vaccination/hepatitis-b-vaccination/) can provide prevention.

Seek prompt advice after blood enters broken skin, the eyes, or the mouth, or after a needle-stick or relevant sexual exposure. Arrange a medical review for yellow skin, persistent nausea, or new dark urine. Get urgent help for confusion, unusual sleepiness, or severe vomiting.

Ask what exposure testing involves, whether close contacts need vaccination, how long precautions should continue, and which liver checks are appropriate.