HBsAg Positive? Here’s What It Means and How to Get Treatment in Government Hospitals
Being told that you are HBsAg positive can feel overwhelming. But don’t worry — with timely diagnosis and proper treatment, most people live long and healthy lives. This post will help you understand what HBsAg means, what tests and treatment are required, and how government hospitals in India provide accessible and often free or subsidized care for Hepatitis B.
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🧬 What is HBsAg?
HBsAg stands for Hepatitis B surface antigen — a protein found on the surface of the Hepatitis B virus (HBV). If your blood test is HBsAg positive, it means:
You are infected with Hepatitis B
The infection could be acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term)
You can transmit the virus to others through blood, sexual contact, or from mother to child
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🔬 What Tests Should Be Done After HBsAg Positive?
Once you test positive for HBsAg, your doctor may recommend:
1. HBV DNA (Viral Load Test) – To check how active the virus is
2. HBeAg – To assess viral replication and infectivity
3. Liver Function Tests (LFTs) – To check liver damage
4. Ultrasound Abdomen / Fibroscan – To check liver size and stiffness
5. Anti-HBc and Anti-HBs – For full hepatitis B profile
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⚠️ Symptoms of Hepatitis B (May Not Always Be Present):
Fatigue and weakness
Yellowing of eyes and skin (jaundice)
Loss of appetite
Nausea or vomiting
Pain in the right upper abdomen
Dark-colored urine
Many people may not show symptoms, especially in the early stage — that’s why screening is essential.
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🏥 Treatment for HBsAg Positive in Government Hospitals
Government hospitals in India, under the National Viral Hepatitis Control Program (NVHCP), provide free diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment for Hepatitis B.
✅ Where to Go:
District Hospitals
Medical Colleges
AIIMS and State-run super-specialty hospitals
Designated Hepatitis Treatment Centers under NVHCP
🩺 What Is Provided:
Free consultation by specialists (gastroenterologist/infectious disease)
Free liver function and viral load tests
Free antiviral medicines like Tenofovir or Entecavir (for eligible chronic Hepatitis B patients)
Free monitoring every 3–6 months
🧾 Documents Required:
Aadhaar card or any government ID
Income certificate (in some states)
Referral letter (if required from primary health center)
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💊 Do All HBsAg Positive Patients Need Treatment?
Not necessarily. Your doctor will assess your condition based on:
Viral load
Liver function
Stage of liver damage (cirrhosis or fibrosis)
Age and health status
Some patients may just need regular monitoring, while others may require lifelong antiviral therapy.
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👶 Vaccination for Family Members:
If you are HBsAg positive, your family members should:
Get tested for Hepatitis B
Take Hepatitis B vaccine (3 doses) if negative
Use safe practices to avoid transmission
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🛡️ Prevention Tips:
Avoid sharing razors, needles, or toothbrushes
Practice safe sex
Avoid alcohol and hepatotoxic drugs
Eat liver-friendly foods and stay active
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✅ Conclusion:
Testing HBsAg positive is not a life sentence. With early diagnosis, regular monitoring, and affordable treatment available in government hospitals, you can control the infection and live a normal life. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your nearest government hospital or health center — they are equipped to help you fight Hepatitis B without burdening your finances.
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