Vaccines to prevent hepatitis B infection
Getting the hepatitis B vaccine is the best method of hepatitis B prevention. In the Asia-Pacific region, many countries provide infants and children with free vaccinations against hepatitis B, and recommend that previously unvaccinated adults at risk for hepatitis B infection also be vaccinated.
The hepatitis B vaccine was included in Singapore’s national childhood immunisation programme in 1985 and extended to cover all newborns in 1987.1
If you think you are at risk for hepatitis B infection, talk to your doctor about vaccination. Remember, if you have developed a chronic hepatitis B infection, a vaccination won’t help you.
Other ways to protect yourself
Since hepatitis B is transmitted through blood and body fluids, there are ways to help prevent hepatitis B infection. Always follow these tips for avoiding hepatitis B infection:
- Avoid sharing personal items with people. These include razors, toothbrushes, earrings and nail clippers
- Make sure that clean needles are used for tattoos and body piercings
- If you visit a barber, make sure that clean razors are used
- Use condoms when you have sex, particularly if you have multiple sex partners
- Avoid illegal drugs. If you do continue to inject illegal drugs, never share needles or syringes
- If you are a medical professional, follow good practices for using and disposing of needles
