How can I protect myself?

You can get the hepatitis B vaccine.

Vaccines protect you from getting hepatitis B.A vaccine is a drug that you take when you are healthy that keeps you from getting sick. Vaccines teach your body to attack certain viruses, like the hepatitis B virus.

The hepatitis B vaccine is given through three shots. All babies should get the vaccine. Infants get the first shot within 12 hours after birth. They get the second shot at age 1 to 2 months and the third shot between ages 6 and 18 months.

Older children and adults can get the vaccine, too. They get three shots over 6 months. Children who have not had the vaccine should get it.

You need all of the shots to be protected. If you miss a shot, call your doctor or clinic right away to set up a new appointment.





You can protect yourself and others from hepatitis B in these ways, too:
People who touch blood at work should wear gloves to protect themselves from hepatitis B.
  • use a condom when you have sex
  • don't share drug needles with anyone
  • wear gloves if you have to touch anyone's blood
  • don't use an infected person's toothbrush, razor, or anything else that could have blood on it
  • also, if you get a tattoo or body piercing, make sure it is done with clean tools