Written and reviewed by Dr Ali Zad, FRACP gastroenterologist, Brisbane. Last reviewed November 2026 against current Australian and international guidelines. General information only, not a substitute for personal medical advice.
On this page
Who should be tested for hepatitis B and C?
Testing is recommended for people born in countries where hepatitis B is common (including much of Asia, Africa and the Pacific), people with a family member with hepatitis B, anyone who has ever injected drugs, had a tattoo or medical procedure with unsterile equipment, or has abnormal liver tests.
Can hepatitis C be cured?
Yes. Modern tablets cure hepatitis C in more than 95% of people with an 8 to 12 week course and few side effects. They are subsidised on the PBS for everyone with hepatitis C in Australia and can be prescribed by GPs.
Guideline: Australian recommendations for the management of hepatitis C virus infection (GESA consensus statement).
How is hepatitis B managed?
Hepatitis B cannot usually be cured, but it can be well controlled. Regular blood tests and liver checks determine whether antiviral tablets are needed. People with hepatitis B also need regular screening for liver cancer if they are at higher risk.
Related procedures and information
Book an appointment
If you have symptoms of hepatitis b and hepatitis c, see your GP or book a consultation with gastroenterologist Dr Ali Zad on (07) 2111 2600 or request an appointment online. You can book directly; a GP referral is needed for a Medicare rebate.
Dr Zad consults and performs procedures across Brisbane and Moreton Bay: Brisbane City and Spring Hill, North Lakes, Caboolture, Everton Park, Taringa and Redcliffe and Kippa-Ring.
