Hepatitis B

Background information

Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver which can have various causes and may become chronic over time. In most cases, it is caused by viruses. Hepatitis B is mainly transmitted sexually. As the virus is present in almost all bodily fluids – that is, in blood, semen and saliva – the infection can be passed on very easily. You should therefore get vaccinated, particularly in view of the potential long-term complications. The cost of the vaccination is covered by health insurance for young people under 18, people at occupational risk and gay men. Simply inform your doctor that you are at increased risk of infection and get vaccinated.