Hepatitis A & B Recommendations

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AIM Recommendations Concerning Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B : Adult Sexuality

All performers should become immune to Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B. Immunity can be achieved in two ways :
a. Prior resolved infection ; or b. Vaccination

Hepatitis immune status can be easily determined through blood testing.

Hepatitis A is transmitted by fecal (shit) – oral (mouth) contact, meaning you can get it through licking/sucking someone’s ass or licking/sucking any item with feces on it (fingers, toys, penis, etc.). Food Poisoning is actually Hep A transmitted by eating food prepared by someone who hasn’t washed their hands after using the bathroom. Sexual

Risks for contracting Hep A include Rimming, A2M, Felching (licking or sucking cum out of someone else’s ass), etc. It is not transmitted by semen. Though not usually considered a sexually transmitted disease, in the sexworker’s line of work, it is. Hep A is usually a self-limited disease (one that runs its course, like a cold virus), but it can be fatal to those with a Hepatitis C infection. Even for those not infected with Hepatitis C, it can sometimes be disabling for a month or more.

Hepatitis B is highly transmissible through sexual acts. It is easily 10 times as infectious as HIV. It is also easily transmitted by blood. This includes menstrual blood, bleeding after anal scenes, and even blood that can be present after dental work or toothbrushing if gums are subject to bleed. Hepatitis B virus can live for weeks, even on dry surfaces. For this reason, toys and props must be cleaned and disinfected before, after, and between scenes. It is extremely transmissible by sharing needles. Like Hep A, it is extremely dangerous to anyone infected with Hepatitis C.

Hepatitis A Vaccine is given in two doses : one now, and the second six to twelve months later.

Hepatitis B Vaccine is a series of three shots : one now, the second a month later, and the third dose five months after the second one.

For either of these vaccines, there is no problem if a dose is delayed. You just pick up where you left off. There is no need to restart the series. Either of these vaccines may be given even if you have a cold or minor illness.

Vaccines may be given through tattoos if needed. Neither the tattoo nor the vaccine will be affected. Anyone with active Hepatitis A or B should not perform, except for solo scenes.

Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B Vaccines may be given at the same time. If given in the same arm, they should be spaced at least an inch apart. An easy to follow schedule for those who need both is :

Hepatitis A:
Today: Shot # 1
6 months: Shot # 2

Hepatitis B:
Today: Shot # 1
1 month: shot # 2
6 months: Shot # 3

Hepatitis A & B Twin Rex:
Today: Shot # 1
1 month: shot # 2
6 months: Shot # 3

Hepatitis C is a much more complicated situation. Recommendations are currently being developed.

Dr. Colin Hamblin
AIM HealthCare Foundation
May 25, 2004