Hepatitis B and Food Handler Health Certificates: Understanding the Mandatory Medical Tests
Hepatitis B is a viral infection that attacks the liver and can cause both acute and chronic disease. While it spreads primarily through blood, sexual contact, and from mother to child during birth, public health regulations in many regions require food handlers to undergo medical screening—including tests for Hepatitis B—before obtaining or renewing their food handler health certificates. This requirement stems from efforts to safeguard public health, particularly in environments where individuals handle food consumed by others. Understanding the rationale behind these mandatory medical tests is essential for both food service workers and consumers.