The ABC’s of Hepatitis
There’s five different types of hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E with the most common types of hepatitis A, B, and C”. Each can cause serious damage to your liver so it is important to be tested, vaccinated, and treated. Without care you can face further damage to your liver to include cancer and even death.
Hepatitis
Hepatitis A is most often as a result of food and water contaminated with the virus. Multiple states have seen outbreaks of hepatitis A. Delaware has seen very few cases but is taking a proactive approach to prevent the spread of hepatitis A. Vaccines are the best way to prevent becoming infected with hepatitis A.
Hepatitis
Hepatitis B is passed from person to person when blood, semen, or other body fluid infected with the virus enters the body of a person not already infected. It is a liver disease that is serious and can either be acute or chronic. You can be vaccinated against hepatitis B under most circumstances to include pregnant women to prevent risk to their babies. It is important to talk to your medical professional to determine your need to be tested and vaccinated.
Hepatitis
Hepatitis C is an infection of the liver caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV). In the United States, hepatitis C is the most common chronic viral infection found in blood and spread through contact with the blood of an infected person. About 4 million people in the United States have chronic hepatitis C. Many people who have hepatitis C have no idea that even have the infection. Approximately, 75 percent of adults in the U.S. who have hepatitis C are “baby boomers”, those individuals born between 1945 and 1965.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that all baby boomers should get tested for HCV at least once.
Take Care of Yourself
Did you know hepatitis C kills more people in the U.S. than any other infectious disease to include HIV and tuberculosis (TB)? And, it affects people of every race, age, gender and sexual orientation. It is sometimes called the “silent killer” because USUALLY there are no symptoms. And, it might take years to feel sick. There are a few things you can do to prevent death and serious illness: GET TESTED, GET TREATED, and GET VACCINATED against Hepatitis A and B if you are at risk.
Find ServicesUPCOMING EVENTS
Events and educational opportunities occur both locally and nationally. Each occasion offers the chance to advocate for hepatitis prevention, testing, and treatment. Network with likeminded people throughout Delaware and spread awareness throughout the nation.
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Test, Treat, Talk.
Let’s stop viral hepatitis for good! Everyone has a part to play. Clinicians can test and treat more. And, talk to your patients. The rest of us can learn more, and pass the word to our friends, families and neighbors. Find Resources ›
