What are the current UK guidelines for screening high-risk populations for Hepatitis B?

Guideline-aligned answer with reasoning, red flags and references. Clinically reviewed by Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGP.

Posted: 16 August 2025Updated: 16 August 2025 Guideline-Aligned (High Confidence) Clinically Reviewed
Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGPClinical Lead • iatroX

GPs and practice nurses should offer testing for hepatitis B to people who are newly registered with the practice and belong to a group at increased risk of infection .

They should ask newly registered adults if they have ever injected drugs, including image and performance enhancement substances, at their first consultation .

Testing should be offered to men who have sex with men who are offered a test for HIV and have not previously tested positive for hepatitis B antibodies .

People who test negative for hepatitis B but remain at increased risk should be offered vaccination .

Testing should also be offered to close contacts of someone known to be chronically infected with hepatitis B .

In addition, testing should be considered for people in high-risk settings such as prisons, immigration removal centres, and among populations with increased prevalence, including migrants from high-prevalence countries .

Educational content only. Always verify information and use clinical judgement.