About hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is a contagious disease, spread by body fluids from infected people. Hepatitis B affects the liver, with symptoms including abdominal pain and dark urine. It can affect people of all ages but can be prevented with vaccination. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms.
Case definitions
National guidelines
Prevention
Vaccination can protect you against hepatitis B. If you're eligible, you can get hepatitis B vaccines for free under the National Immunisation Program. See more information about when to get vaccinated.
Other ways to prevent hepatitis B infection include:
- using condoms during sex
- covering any open wounds or cuts with a waterproof dressing
- not sharing personal items like toothbrushes and razors
- only going to piercing and tattoo studios that are registered and use proper sterilisation techniques
- using gloves when helping with first aid.
Vaccination
Find out more about getting vaccinated against hepatitis B.
Symptoms, diagnosis and treatment
For information about symptoms, diagnosis and treatment, see healthdirect's hepatitis B page.
Surveillance and reporting
Hepatitis B is a nationally notifiable disease.
We monitor cases through the National Notifiable Diseases Surveillance System.
For more on hepatitis B in Australia, you can search Communicable Diseases Intelligence.