Hepatitis B is a virus that causes damage to your liver. It can be chronic, which means having it your whole life.
In Australia more than 220,000 people are living with chronic Hepatitis B. Many people don’t know they have it.
You can protect yourself against hepatitis B with a vaccine. The vaccine is safe and works well.
You can take medicine to take care of your chronic hepatitis B. You can live well with chronic hepatitis B.
Click on the links below to find out more about hepatitis B.
Dr Alice Lam explains how incorrect reporting on the transmission of hepatitis B and hepatitis C can increase stigma and discrimination, and worsen health outcomes. Read more
Testing, treatment and staying healthy. This guide is to help you understand the process from being tested for hepatitis B (often called hep B) to living well with chronic (life-long) hep B. Read more
Basic information about hepatitis B transmission and how it affects people. Read more
Hepatitis B can be prevented with a safe and effective vaccine. Read more
Information about the symptoms of acute and chronic hepatitis B. Read more
Tests used to diagnose hepatitis B Read more
If you have hepatitis B, it is important to visit your doctor regularly for liver check-ups. Read more
Regular liver checks are important for everyone living with hepatitis B Read more
In Australia, people living with hepatitis B and hepatitis C have rights that protect them from being discriminated against. People living with hepatitis B or C also have responsibilities to protect public health. Read more
Medicines for hepatitis B help you live well with the virus. Talk to your doctor about whether starting treatment is right for you. Read more
Hepatitis delta (sometimes called hepatitis D virus, or HDV) is a bit different to other hepatitis viruses, because it can only affect people who have hepatitis B. Hepatitis delta can accelerate the health impacts of hepatitis B, leading to more severe outcomes for people living with both viruses. Read more
Dr Alice Lam provides some suggestions that may help you deal with a hepatitis B diagnosis. Read more
Having cirrhosis means that you have severe scarring on your liver. In most cases it is a chronic condition, which means you will usually have it for the rest of your life – however proper treatment can reduce the impact on your health. Read more
If you’ve been told that you are “just a healthy carrier”, read on for a myth-busting update from Dr Alice Lam. Read more
Hepatitis Australia resources translated into various languages Read more
A series of commonly asked questions about hepatitis B. If you do not see the question you have in mind you can call 1800 437 222 to speak to your local hepatitis organisation. Read more
Although most people get hepatitis B at birth, it can be transmitted in other ways including sex. This article contains information about how it is spreads, and how you can keep your partner safe. Read more
People with chronic hepatitis B have higher rates of depression and anxiety than the general population. Dr Alice Lam explains at why this can happen, and what we can do about it. Read more
“Detox diets”, supplements and Traditional Chinese Medicine are marketed as beneficial for the liver, but do they work? from Dr Alice Lam. Read more