One way both hepatitis A and B is spread is through sexual activity. Hepatitis A is typically contracted from contaminated water or food, but it can also be contracted from anal intercourse or analingus. Hepatitis B is typically spread through body fluids, such as blood, semen and vaginal fluids.
The hepatitis vaccines are effective and provide long-term protection after the second dose. The most common side effect reported is soreness at the injection site. A hepatitis A/hepatitis B combination vaccine can also be administered to adults. The combined vaccine is given in three doses over six months.
The CDC recommends hepatitis A and B vaccinations for:
All children
Men engaging in sexual intercourse with other men
Illegal drug users
Those living in households with people affected with hepatitis A or B
Those planning to be sexually active with a person affected with hepatitis A or B …show more content…
Those in monogamous relationships are less likely to be exposed if both they and their partner have tested negative for all STDs and STIs. It is recommended that those with multiple sex partners be tested more regularly. The CDC makes the following recommendations:
Sexually active women younger than 25 years old, and those older than 25 who have multiple sex partners, should undergo annual chlamydia and gonorrhea screening.
All adults and adolescents ages 13 to 64 should be tested at least once for HIV, and anyone who shares injection drug equipment or engages in unprotected sex should get tested for HIV at least one time per year.
Sexually active gay and bisexual men should be tested for HIV, syphilis, chlamydia and gonorrhea every three to six months.
Pregnant women should be tested for HIV, hepatitis B and syphilis, and at-risk expectant mothers should be screened for gonorrhea and