Make sure all your family members are tested for hepatitis B and vaccinated if they are not immune. If you have chronic hepatitis B, vaccination is free for people living in your household. Call 1800 437 222 for more information.
How can I take care of myself? If you have hepatitis B, and have no immunity to hepatitis A, talk to your doctor about the best time to get vaccinated for it. You should also limit alcohol consumption. Remember, no amount of alcohol consumption is safe during pregnancy.
Hepatitis B & Mothers to be
Does baby still need vaccination? All babies born in Australia after May 2000 are given a birth dose of hepatitis B vaccine, followed by the standard 3-dose hepatitis B vaccination. The recommended timing for follow up doses are 2, 4 and 6 months. The vaccine is safe, even for premature babies. When
Infant born to mother with chronic hepatitis B should receive:
At birth (within 12 hours)
Birth dose of hepatitis B vaccine
2 months
2nd dose of hepatitis B vaccine
4 months
3rd dose of hepatitis B vaccine
6 months
4th dose of hepatitis B vaccine
It is recommended that your liver is monitored at least every six months with blood tests. Your doctor may also arrange special scans of your liver. While you are pregnant, your doctor may request blood tests more frequently.
More Information
I don't have hepatitis B...
Hepatitis SA Helpline 1800 437 222 www.hepsa.asn.au
Do I need vaccination?
Kaurna Country PO Box 782, Kent Town SA 5071
Developed in consultation with the Department of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Women's and Children's Hospital. SA Health has contributed funds to this program
Last update: Feb 2023
Illustrations © Adil Soh-Lim
If test results show you don't have hepatitis B, it is important to know if you have the antibodies which protect you against possible hepatitis B infection. If you don't have immunity, talk to your doctor about when is a good time for you to get vaccinated.