What to expect from hepatitis B vaccination for hepatitis B infection

The vaccine trains the immune system to recognise hepatitis B before exposure. It cannot clear a current infection or replace antiviral treatment and liver monitoring. A blood test can help distinguish current infection, past exposure, and protection from vaccination. If you have hepatitis B, your clinician may discuss liver tests, viral testing, and whether treatment or follow-up is needed. People living with you or sharing sexual contact may need testing and vaccination advice.

Tell the clinician whether you have received any vaccine doses, have a positive hepatitis B test, are pregnant, or take medicines that affect immunity. Complete the schedule recommended for your situation and keep the record. Until your status is clear, do not share razors, toothbrushes, or needles, and use safer sex practices. Ask about testing for household and sexual contacts. Read [Hepatitis B Vaccination](/treatments/preventive-care-and-vaccination/hepatitis-b-vaccination/).

Arrange prompt medical review for yellowing of the skin or eyes, very dark urine, severe abdominal swelling, persistent vomiting, confusion, or unusual bleeding. Seek urgent help for vomiting blood, black stools, severe confusion, or sudden worsening. After vaccination, seek emergency care for trouble breathing, facial swelling, or collapse, which may indicate a serious allergic reaction.

Do my blood tests show current infection, past exposure, or vaccine protection? Do I need antiviral treatment or liver monitoring? Should my household and sexual contacts be tested or vaccinated? Which vaccine schedule applies to me? What symptoms should prompt urgent care?