CDC Now Recommends Universal Adult Hepatitis B Screening

Frequently Asked Questions

What about risk factors?

• New CDC guidance expands HBV screening to all adults regardless of risk factors to facilitate timely diagnosis and, if infected, linkage to care. United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) continues to recommend screening of adults based on risk factors, and California law (AB 789) requires hepatitis B screening based on USPSTF guidance. 

Who should be vaccinated against Hepatitis B?

• CDC recommends a hepatitis B vaccination series for all adults 19-59 years who screen negative for hepatitis B.

Can I screen and vaccinate at the same visit?

• Screening tests can be ordered the same day as vaccination. Blood should be drawn before vaccine administration. The first vaccine dose can be given on the same day as screening tests are done; however, patients who test positive for hepatitis B should not receive additional vaccine doses.

Where can I find more information?

• New CDPH job aid summarizing recommendations for HBV Screening and Vaccination in Adults and a Vaccine Timing Guide is available for providers.
• New CDPH Hepatitis B Resources page is also available for patients and providers.

You can continue efforts towards eliminating hepatitis B with the following:

• Add your clinic to the list of screening sites available to the public on https://gettested.cdc.gov/ through completion of this online form to CDC.
• Promote hepatitis B awareness using CDC’s social media toolkit.
• Take part in these upcoming hepatitis B events and Hepatitis Awareness Month in May:
• April 30^th is Adult Hepatitis B Vaccination Awareness Day
• May 1^st CDC is hosting a webinar on the universal hepatitis B recommendations and on May 16^th a webinar on hepatitis b screening recommendations
• May 19^th is National Hepatitis Testing Day

Thank you for all that you do towards eliminating Hepatitis B!