Hepatitis B Surface Antibody Total (Anti HBs)
The "All Clear" & Immunity Shield
The Anti-HBs (Hepatitis B Surface Antibody) test is the gold standard for checking immunity.
While other Hepatitis tests look for the virus, this test looks for your body’s defence system. If you have a high level of Anti-HBs, it means your immune system has built a "shield" against Hepatitis B. This shield prevents the virus from entering your liver cells.
In short: A positive result on this test is GOOD news. It means you are protected.
Why Do You Need This Test?
You generally do not book this test to see if you are sick; you book it to see if you are safe. Common reasons include:
- Vaccine Verification: To confirm that your Hepatitis B vaccination course (usually 3 shots) successfully triggered an immune response.
- Occupational Requirement: Healthcare workers (doctors, nurses, dentists) must prove they are immune to work safely with patients.
- Post-Recovery Check: If you had an acute Hepatitis B infection, this test confirms that you have cleared the virus and are now recovered.
- Booster Decision: To see if your immunity has "worn off" over the years and if you need a booster shot.
