What is a Better2Know Hepatitis B Surface Antigen test?

Hepatitis B is a virus that infects your liver. Hepatitis B is spread through contact with infected blood, semen, and vaginal fluids. It can also be spread by sharing razors, toothbrushes and other toiletry items. There is no cure for Hepatitis B, but the body’s own immune system will sometimes clear the infection. If it is unable to do so, the infection becomes chronic and will lead to liver damage, cirrhosis, liver cancer and liver failure. This Better2Know Hepatitis B Surface Antigen test (HBsAg) will detect a current infection. This is the test you need if you are concerned you may have been exposed to hepatitis B infection.

Why consider a Hepatitis b Surface Antigen test?

Hepatitis B is very infectious and easy to catch. The virus can live on most surfaces for over a week and is therefore easy to pick up. Around the world, about 1 in three people have been infected with Hepatitis B and every year Hepatitis B accounts for over 820,000 deaths. You should get a Hepatitis B Surface Antigen test if you are concerned about this infection, have travelled abroad or think you may have come into contact with someone carrying this infection. Symptoms of a Hepatitis B infection can include:

• Yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes, also called jaundice.
• Fever
• Loss of appetite
• Abdominal pain
• Nausea and Vomiting
• Fatigue and lack of Energy
• Dark urine
• Joint pain

How does this test work?

The Better2Know Hepatitis B Surface Antigen test or HBsAg test requires only a small blood sample. The blood sample is collected from a simple finger prick and a few drops of blood are collected in a small tube. We supply all the material you need to collect your sample in the kit provided. Once you have collected your blood sample, simply follow the instructions in your kit and place it back in the prepaid postage envelope included for your sample to be sent back to our accredited laboratory for analysis. You will receive your results within one working day.

What tests will you run on my sample?

Your blood sample will be tested for the Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg). The Surface Antigen is recognised to be the gold standard marker for a current and active Hepatitis B infection. If your HBsAg test is positive, this means that you are currently infected with Hepatitis B, and you need to seek medical attention. Anyone living with you or that you have had close contact with will need to be tested as well.

When will my test kit arrive?

If ordered before 4pm Monday-Friday, your test kit will be mailed the very same day using first class postage and should arrive the next working day, depending on your location.

How will I receive my test results?

Your HBsAg results will be available within one working day after your sample arrives at the lab. Better2Know will provide you with a confidential login code for our secure online patient login area, where you will be able to view your results once they are available. A member of our team will also contact you directly, to inform you when the results are in.

What should I do with my results?

If your results are positive for Hepatitis B, you should seek medical attention right away. It is important that you be seen by a specialist who may run additional tests to gauge how much damage has already been done to your liver. Better2Know can make you an appointment with a private doctor in your local area, or you can visit your own GP.

How can I order my test?

Select the ‘Add to Basket’ button and proceed to checkout to order your HBsAg test. If you require assistance do not hesitate to call, we are able to complete your order over the phone. If you have any further questions use the phone number above, our team is happy to help.