Can a health certificate be issued if the hepatitis B surface antibody test is positive?
Dec 03, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Huang Yuhong
Introduction
Hepatitis B surface antibody is a protective antibody. A positive result usually indicates one of two situations: first, the person has previously received the hepatitis B vaccine, prompting the immune system to produce antibodies; second, the person had a past infection with the hepatitis B virus but has since recovered, developing immunological memory. Both situations indicate the absence of current hepatitis B virus infection and demonstrate resistance to the virus, fulfilling the basic requirements for obtaining a health certificate.
Generally, a positive hepatitis B surface antibody test result does not prevent one from obtaining a health certificate, as it indicates the presence of protective antibodies in the body. If in doubt, it is recommended to consult the medical examination institution in advance. The detailed analysis is as follows:
The hepatitis B surface antibody is a type of protective antibody. A positive result usually indicates one of two scenarios: either the individual has previously received the hepatitis B vaccine, prompting the immune system to produce antibodies, or they were previously infected with the hepatitis B virus but have since recovered, developing immunological memory. Both situations indicate the absence of current hepatitis B infection and demonstrate resistance to the virus, thus meeting the basic requirements for obtaining a health certificate.
If both hepatitis B surface antigen and other abnormal indicators are present, it may suggest an ongoing infection or incomplete clearance of a past infection, necessitating further evaluation of liver function and viral load. However, isolated positivity for hepatitis B surface antibody is not a cause for concern. Individuals with this result cannot transmit the virus through daily contact and generally face no restrictions when applying for a health certificate.
It is advisable to periodically check antibody titers; if levels decline to weakly positive, a booster vaccination should be considered. When applying for a health certificate, bringing a recent hepatitis B serology (two pairs and a half) report can improve the efficiency of the review process.
