Quick answer: Hepatitis B is tested with an HBsAg blood test, and hepatitis C with an anti-HCV antibody test. Both are simple, affordable blood tests. Test about 6 to 12 weeks after a possible exposure. Hepatitis B is preventable with a vaccine, and hepatitis C is now curable in most people with 8 to 12 weeks of tablets.
Hepatitis B and C are viral infections of the liver. They spread through blood and, for hepatitis B especially, through sex. Most people feel completely well for years, which is why millions of Indians have one of these infections without knowing it. A quick test brings peace of mind, or early treatment that protects your liver.
Who should get tested?
- Anyone who had unprotected sex with a new or unknown partner
- People with a partner or family member who has hepatitis B or C
- Anyone who has shared needles, razors or toothbrushes
- People who had tattoos, piercings or medical procedures with unsterile equipment
- People living with HIV, and men who have sex with men
- Pregnant women, as part of routine antenatal care
- Anyone with abnormal liver tests, tiredness, or yellow eyes
Which tests are used?
| Test | What it tells you | Typical price in India |
|---|---|---|
| HBsAg | Current hepatitis B infection | ₹250 to ₹600 |
| Anti-HBs | Whether you are protected by vaccine or past infection | ₹500 to ₹1,000 |
| Anti-HCV | Exposure to hepatitis C | ₹500 to ₹1,000 |
| HCV RNA PCR | Confirms active hepatitis C, and detects it earlier | ₹3,000 to ₹5,000 |
A positive anti-HCV test needs an HCV RNA test to confirm active infection, because about one in four people clear the virus naturally.
When to test after exposure
- Hepatitis B (HBsAg): usually detectable from 4 to 6 weeks, reliable by 12 weeks.
- Hepatitis C (anti-HCV): reliable from 8 to 12 weeks.
- Hepatitis C (RNA PCR): can detect infection from 1 to 2 weeks.
If a needle-stick or high-risk exposure happened in the last few days, see a doctor immediately. For hepatitis B, a vaccine dose and immunoglobulin given early can prevent infection.
Treatment and prevention
- Hepatitis B: the vaccine (3 doses) gives long-term protection. If you already have it, antiviral tablets keep it under control and protect the liver.
- Hepatitis C: there is no vaccine, but modern tablets cure over 95 percent of people.
Test for HIV and syphilis too
Hepatitis B and C share risks with HIV and syphilis, so doctors often recommend testing for all of them together. Read which STD tests do I need or our guide to the syphilis test.
Frequently asked questions
Is hepatitis B a sexually transmitted infection?
Yes. Hepatitis B spreads easily through sex, as well as through blood and from mother to baby. Hepatitis C spreads mainly through blood, and less commonly through sex.
Can hepatitis C be cured?
Yes. Most people are cured with 8 to 12 weeks of tablets.
I was vaccinated as a child. Do I still need a test?
An anti-HBs test shows whether you are still protected. If levels are low, a booster may be advised.
Where can I get tested confidentially?
Cupid Clinics offers private hepatitis B and C testing in Bengaluru, Mangaluru and Vadodara, home collection in Hyderabad, and online doctor consultations across India. Call +91 95912 52505.
Book a confidential test: see STD tests or call +91 95912 52505.
Medically reviewed by the Medical Director, Cupid Clinics. Prices are indicative and may vary by lab.
