Hepatitis B: Vaccination, Testing, Treatment, and PrEP

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is transmitted through blood, sex, and parent-to-child exposure. HBV vaccination is the main prevention method. Some oral PrEP contains tenofovir/emtricitabine, which is active against HBV, but PrEP is not a vaccine and should not be promoted as universal HBV prevention.

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Testing

Interpretation uses HBsAg, anti-HBs, and anti-HBc according to the question. Results distinguish current or past infection, vaccine immunity, and susceptibility. Chronic HBV requires assessment of liver health, viral activity, and liver-cancer risk.

Prevention

Complete vaccination, screen in pregnancy, provide infant vaccine and immunoglobulin when indicated, use condoms, and never share injection or sharp equipment. Partners and household members should test and vaccinate if not immune.

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Treatment and PrEP

Some people with chronic HBV need long-term tenofovir or entecavir. Stopping an HBV-active medicine—including TDF/FTC or TAF/FTC PrEP—can cause a hepatitis flare. Test for HBV before oral PrEP and plan stopping with a provider.

Verified references

Links and relevance to the article’s main topic were reviewed on 13 August 2026. Each source supports only the scope stated in the original document and does not replace personalised medical, legal, or service advice.

1. WHO: Hepatitis B fact sheet Accessed 13 August 2026