Lab test · Hepatology
Anti-HBs (Hepatitis B Surface Antibody)
Hepatitis B immunity (vaccine)
- Blood sample
- No fasting
- Report within 24 hours
- Home collection
What this test is for
Hepatitis B immunity (vaccine)
Anti-HBs is an antibody against the surface protein of the hepatitis B virus. It develops after successful hepatitis B vaccination or after recovery from an infection, and it shows protection against the virus. Doctors use it to check whether a vaccine has worked, especially in health workers, and to decide whether someone needs vaccination.
Why a doctor may order it
- To check that hepatitis B vaccination has worked, for example in health workers
- Before vaccination, to see whether you are already immune
- After a hepatitis B infection, to confirm recovery and immunity
- For babies born to mothers with hepatitis B, after their vaccinations
- In people on dialysis or with a weakened immune system
How to prepare
Fasting: Not needed.
No preparation is needed. If you can, tell your doctor the dates of your hepatitis B vaccinations, as timing helps with reading the result.
At home
- Sample
- Blood sample
- How it works
- The collector visits your home and takes a small blood sample from a vein in your arm. It usually takes just a few minutes.
- Report
- Within 24 hours of collection.
What the results can mean
The report shows your antibody level against the laboratory's cut-off for protection. A level above the cut-off means you are protected. A level below it may mean you are not protected, and your doctor may suggest a booster or another vaccine course. In people who responded well to vaccination in the past, levels can fall over the years while protection often continues. Your doctor will interpret the result alongside HBsAg and anti-HBc when needed.
What's included
One test: Anti-HBs (Hepatitis B Surface Antibody), from one blood sample.
Related tests
- Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg)HBsAg is a protein on the surface of the hepatitis B virus.
- Anti-HBc Total (Hepatitis B Core Antibody)Past or current hepatitis B৳550
- HBsAg Test by ELISA (Confirmatory)HBsAg (hepatitis B surface antigen) is a protein on the surface of the hepatitis B virus.
- HBeAg (Hepatitis B e Antigen)Hepatitis B activity৳550
- Liver Function Test (LFT)A liver function test is a group of blood tests that show how well your liver is working and whether it is inflamed or damaged.
- Hepatitis C Antibody (Anti-HCV)Hepatitis C screening৳450
Questions people ask
What is the difference between anti-HBs and HBsAg?
HBsAg is part of the virus and shows a current infection. Anti-HBs is the antibody against it and shows protection from vaccination or past infection.
Do I need a booster if my anti-HBs level is low?
Not always. Your doctor decides based on your vaccination history, job and health, as many people who responded to the vaccine before stay protected.
How can I tell whether my immunity is from the vaccine or an infection?
The anti-HBc test helps. It is positive after an infection but not after vaccination alone.
How much does a Anti-HBs test cost in Dhaka?
With Mukti Health the price is ৳550, and the sample is collected at your home in Dhaka. You see the price again before you confirm the booking in the Mukti Health app.
Can I do the Anti-HBs test at home in Dhaka?
Yes. Book it in the Mukti Health app and a trained sample collector comes to your home in Dhaka to take the blood sample. You do not need to go to a laboratory.
How long does the Anti-HBs report take?
The report is usually ready within 24 hours of the sample being collected.