Better Health Channel
betterhealth.vic.gov.au Department of Health
betterhealth.vic.gov.au Department of Health
  • Hepatitis B virus can cause serious illness or death and lead to liver disease and cancer.
  • Babies can contract hepatitis B from their infected mother during birth.
  • Immunisation is about 95% effective and is recommended for all infants and young children, adolescents and those in high-risk groups.
  • The National Immunisation Program provides free vaccinations against hepatitis B for babies from birth.
  • In Victoria other groups at high risk can also receive free vaccination against hepatitis B.
  • Common vaccination side effects are usually mild and temporary, and do not require specific treatment.

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Content on this website is provided for information purposes only. Information about a therapy, service, product or treatment does not in any way endorse or support such therapy, service, product or treatment and is not intended to replace advice from your doctor or other registered health professional. The information and materials contained on this website are not intended to constitute a comprehensive guide concerning all aspects of the therapy, product or treatment described on the website. All users are urged to always seek advice from a registered health care professional for diagnosis and answers to their medical questions and to ascertain whether the particular therapy, service, product or treatment described on the website is suitable in their circumstances. The State of Victoria and the Department of Health shall not bear any liability for reliance by any user on the materials contained on this website.

Reviewed on: 02-05-2023