Key points
- Gay and bisexual men are at increased risk for hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C.
- Left untreated, hepatitis B and hepatitis C can cause serious liver problems and even death.
- Vaccination is the best way to prevent hepatitis A and hepatitis B.
- There is no vaccine for hepatitis C, but most people can be cured with timely treatment.
The risk of viral hepatitis
Hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C can be spread through sex and cause the liver to become inflamed.
Infections are high among men who have sex with men, which puts gay and bisexual men at an increased risk for transmission or becoming infected.
Understanding viral hepatitis
While hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C can all cause damage to the liver, they have important differences. Learn more about the differences in viral hepatitis types.
Preventing viral hepatitis
Vaccination can prevent hepatitis A and hepatitis B
Hepatitis A and hepatitis B can be prevented with vaccines. CDC recommends all eligible gay and bisexual men get vaccinated against both the hepatitis A virus (HAV) and the hepatitis B virus (HBV). Despite this recommendation, adult vaccination rates remain low.
Hepatitis A and hepatitis B vaccines can be given separately or as a combination vaccine and require 2–3 shots, depending on the type of vaccine.
Need help finding a vaccine? Visit Vaccines.gov.
Preventing hepatitis C
There is no vaccine to prevent hepatitis C. Therefore, the best way to prevent hepatitis C is by avoiding behaviors that can spread the disease. If you suspect a patient has been exposed, testing and treatment can prevent complications and interrupt transmission.