Prevention

At first glance, this may not seem obvious, but vaccination against hepatitis B is the most reliable way to prevent hepatitis D.
This is because infection with hepatitis D is only possible if the hepatitis B virus is already present in the body.

---

Vaccination — the key to protection

A safe and highly effective hepatitis B vaccine is available today, providing 98–100% protection.

Preventing hepatitis B infection:

• also protects against hepatitis D;
• reduces the risk of developing chronic liver disease;
• prevents cirrhosis and liver cancer.
  

According to the recommendations of the World Health Organization (WHO):

• all infants should receive their first dose of the vaccine as soon as possible after birth, preferably within the first 24 hours;
• to complete the course, 2 or 3 doses must be administered at intervals of at least 4 weeks;
• protection after the full course lasts for at least 20 years and is likely to be lifelong;
• Booster shots are not recommended for people who have completed the standard vaccination course.
  

In Ukraine, vaccination against hepatitis B is carried out in accordance with the updated National Immunization Schedule.
In addition, a mandatory vaccination program for all infants has been in effect in Ukraine since 2000.

👉 People vaccinated against hepatitis B are also protected against hepatitis D.

---

What this means for adults

• People born after 2000 were, in most cases, vaccinated against hepatitis B as children.
• However, people born before 2000 may not have been vaccinated.
  

Therefore, such individuals are advised to undergo testing to determine their hepatitis B status and, if necessary, receive the vaccine as prescribed by a doctor.

The WHO also recommends antiviral prophylaxis to reduce the risk of mother-to-child transmission of the virus—when medically indicated.

⚠️ Important: Hepatitis B vaccination does not protect people who are already infected with HBV from hepatitis D, but it prevents new infections and the spread of HDV in the population.

---

How to reduce the risk of infection

In addition to vaccination, it is important to follow simple safety rules:

• practice safe sex by using condoms;
• do not share needles, syringes, or accessories for injecting or snorting drugs;
• Make sure that only sterile instruments are used for tattoos and piercings;
• Do not use other people’s personal hygiene items (razors, manicure tools);
• Avoid contact with blood and bodily fluids without protective equipment.
  

---

Important to remember

• Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent hepatitis B and, consequently, hepatitis D.
• It protects not only against infection but also against its serious consequences.
• Combining vaccination with safe behavior is the key to stopping the spread of viral hepatitis.
  

---

We’re here to help you navigate these steps calmly and clearly—from testing to the next steps.