Hepatitis B is a virus that affects the liver. It can have serious complications, such as liver scarring, liver failure, & cancer, & can be fatal if left untreated.
Hepatitis B testing can detect an active virus, or previous exposure & immunity.
When should I get tested?
You should get tested for Hepatitis B if you have had unprotected sex, or if you think you may have been exposed to the virus in another way, such as through sharing needles. A test is also advised if you are showing symptoms of Hepatitis B, which include nausea & vomiting, joint pain, low-grade fever, or liver symptoms such as jaundice, pale stools, itchy skin or rash, or abdominal pain.
What the test includes?
The test for Hepatitis is a blood test, so you can expect to have a blood sample taken by a doctor or nurse, which will be sent to the laboratory for results. either a blood test or skin swabs, depending on your case.