Introduction - In France, an estimated 500,000 people are chronically infected with viral hepatitis B or C. Few studies have examined public perceptions and behaviors regarding these diseases. The Nicolle Survey on Infectious Diseases surveyed the French population about their knowledge and perceptions of viral hepatitis. Method - The survey was conducted in early 2006 among a random sample of 4,112 people aged 18 to 79, who were interviewed by telephone. Results - Viral hepatitis is the most feared infectious disease (excluding AIDS) after meningitis. Respondents are aware of certain risk factors: 70.5% acknowledge the risk of contracting hepatitis during a tattoo or piercing. Conversely, hepatitis is rarely mentioned among the diseases one is exposed to when traveling outside France (14.2%). Similarly, while 76.8% of respondents state that hepatitis C is a major health problem, knowledge about it is poor: 42.4% believe there is a vaccine against hepatitis C, and 19.3% are unsure of its existence. Discussion - The public appears to be aware of the public health challenge posed by viral hepatitis, despite a lack of knowledge regarding its prevention and treatment. [author’s abstract]