May is Hepatitis Awareness Month

By Rose Napoleon - H-line Expert

Hepatitis refers to inflammation of the liver, most often caused by a virus. In the U.S, the most common types are Hepatitis A (HAV), Hepatitis B (HBV), and Hepatitis C (HCV).

• Hepatitis A (Hep A) is usually a short-term infection. It is spread through contaminated food/ water, or close contact with someone who is infected.

• Hepatitis B (Hep B) may clear on its own, but for some people it becomes a chronic (long-term) infection. It spreads through contact with infected blood and bodily fluids, including semen and rectal or vaginal fluids. The probability of transmission increases with condomless sex and sharing injection equipment.

• Hepatitis C (Hep C) is often curable with effective treatment. It is primarily spread through contact with infected blood. Sexual transmission is less common but can occur, especially when blood is present.

Why testing matters:

Many people with hepatitis do not have symptoms. The only way to know your status is to get tested.

Prevention:

Vaccines are available for Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B. Talk to your healthcare provider about vaccination and whether you may need a booster.

Contact the H Line for more information and for resources in NYS.