Hepatitis B tests
Get tested! Since 50% to 70% of people who are infected with the virus in adulthood do not get any acute hepatitis B symptoms,1 the only way to know for sure if you have been infected with the virus is to get a hepatitis B blood test.
This hepatitis B blood test will determine if you have the virus and will give your doctor important information about how the virus is affecting your health. The testing process is very simple, but your doctor is the best person to explain what needs to be done.
If you are in fact infected with the virus, your doctor can tell you if you have acute hepatitis B or chronic hepatitis B. In addition, your doctor can tell you how much of the virus is in your blood. In medical terms, this is called viral load. A lower viral load means that you are less likely to suffer serious liver damage.
There are also other hepatitis tests that can tell your doctor if liver damage has occurred. Ask your doctor to explain the results.
While there is no cure for hepatitis B, certain medications can help manage the disease by reducing the amount of virus in your blood or stimulating the immune system to fight the virus.
Locate a hepatitis B testing centre
Please visit your medical professional for any additional questions or concerns.
