Can an inactive carrier of hepatitis B spread the virus?

Inactive hepatitis B describes a phase in which viral activity and liver inflammation may be low. It does not mean the virus has left the body or that monitoring is unnecessary. Hepatitis B can be present without obvious symptoms; when symptoms occur, they may include fatigue or dark urine.

Transmission can occur through infected blood or certain body fluids, including during sexual contact, shared injecting equipment, or from parent to baby around birth. Ordinary social contact such as sharing a meal does not spread hepatitis B.

Arrange ongoing follow-up for hepatitis B. A clinician may review liver enzymes, viral activity and other markers, and may use a [Liver Function Test](/treatments/diagnostics-and-screening/liver-function-test/) as part of assessment. Do not stop monitoring simply because you feel well.

Do not share razors, toothbrushes or equipment that may contact blood. Use condoms unless a clinician confirms a partner is protected, cover open wounds, and tell healthcare and dental professionals about the infection. Household and sexual contacts can ask about [Hepatitis B Vaccination](/treatments/preventive-care-and-vaccination/hepatitis-b-vaccination/). More background is available under [Hepatitis B](/conditions/hepatitis-b/).

Seek prompt medical care for yellowing of the eyes or skin, new dark urine, severe abdominal pain, vomiting, confusion, unusual bleeding or rapidly worsening tiredness. If a possible blood or sexual exposure has occurred, contact a clinician promptly because prevention and testing may be time-sensitive.

What do my viral and liver tests show? How often should I be monitored? Which relatives or partners should be tested or vaccinated? Do my medicines, pregnancy plans or other conditions change follow-up?