Hepatitis B Screening Test

This screening test is for anyone who needs clarity on their hepatitis B status, whether for routine sexual health screening, pre-employment or occupational health clearance, travel or visa requirements, fertility and antenatal planning, or simply peace of mind. It uses a simple blood sample, analysed by immunoassay, to check two complementary markers: whether you are currently infected with the hepatitis B virus, and whether you already have protective immunity.

What it screens for

• Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg): Detects the outer protein of the hepatitis B virus in the blood. A positive result indicates a current (active) infection, which may be acute or chronic, and means the virus can be passed on to others. This is the primary marker used to identify people who are infectious and who may need referral to a hepatology or infectious diseases specialist.

• Hepatitis B surface antibodies (anti-HBs): Detects protective antibodies against the virus surface protein. A positive result indicates immunity, either from previous successful vaccination or from recovery after past infection. This marker confirms that you are protected and cannot become infected through future exposure.

Why it matters

Hepatitis B is a blood-borne and sexually transmitted virus that can quietly damage the liver over many years, sometimes leading to cirrhosis or liver cancer, yet many people carrying it have no symptoms at all. Identifying a current infection early allows monitoring and treatment that can prevent long-term liver damage and reduce transmission to partners and, in pregnancy, to your baby. Equally, confirming immunity gives you confidence that you are protected, or shows clearly whether vaccination is needed. Whether you are booking for regulatory clearance, antenatal care, or personal reassurance, this test provides the two answers that matter most: are you infected, and are you protected?