How is hepatitis B spread?
Hepatitis B is spread through contact with blood and body fluids from an infected person. For example, the virus can be spread:
- Through infected blood, semen, and other body fluids during sexual contact.
- When people share needles to inject drugs.
- When an infected person shares items that may have blood on them. Examples are a razor or toothbrush.
- When needles used for tattoos, body piercing, or acupuncture are not cleaned properly.
People who handle blood may become infected with the virus. For example, health care workers may get the virus when they treat an infected person.
A mother who has the virus can pass it to her baby during the birth. If you are pregnant and think you may have been exposed to hepatitis B, get tested. If you have the virus, your baby can be given shots to help prevent getting the virus.
You can’t get hepatitis B from casual contact such as hugging, kissing, sneezing, coughing, or sharing food or drinks.