Yes. Although most people get hepatitis B at birth, it can be transmitted in other ways including sex. Hepatitis B contained in blood, semen or other fluids can be spread through vaginal, anal, or oral sex without a condom.

Condoms are an effective way to protect against hepatitis B, but the best way to prevent hepatitis B infection is to get vaccinated.

Hepatitis B is not spread through normal hugging, kissing or sharing meals, showers or toilets with someone who has hepatitis B.

Find out more about hepatitis B and relationships

Find out more about hepatitis B vaccination

References

Department of Health & Human Services Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 2010. When Someone Close To You Has Chronic Hepatitis B.

Updated: 10 August 2020