Prevention Measures

Hepatitis B is a vaccine-preventable disease. There is a safe and effective vaccine to protect infants, children and adults from hepatitis B. Billions of doses have been given worldwide. Learn more.

All sex partners, family and close household members of a chronically infected person should be screened and vaccinated. Reassure patients and families that hepatitis B is not casually transmitted - it is spread through blood, not by coughing, sneezing, hugging or sharing food.

Additional Prevention Measures

In addition to vaccination, there are other simple ways to help stop the spread of hepatitis B:

Wash your hands thoroughly after any potential exposure
Practice safe sex with all partners
Avoid direct contact with blood and bodily fluids
Clean up blood spills with a fresh diluted bleach solution
Cover all cuts carefully
Avoid sharing sharp items such as razors, nail clippers, toothbrushes, and earrings or body rings
Discard sanitary napkins and tampons into plastic bags
Avoid illegal street drugs (injecting, inhaling, snorting, popping pills)
Do not donate blood or body organs
Make sure new, sterile needles are used for ear or body piercing, tattoos, and acupuncture