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Fight Hep C--Get Tested!

Date: 05/05/23

A person dies every 30 seconds from a hepatitis-related illness. Every May, we recognize Hepatitis Awareness Month, taking the opportunity to raise awareness about hepatitis and encourage testing.

Hepatitis C (hep C or HCV) is spread by direct contact with an infected person's blood. The symptoms of the hep C virus can be very similar to those of the hepatitis A and B viruses. However, infection with the hep C virus can lead to chronic liver disease.

Did you know? May 19 is Hepatis Testing Day. Millions of people are living with hep C and don’t know they have it. That’s why getting tested is so important.

Hep C acts very slowly; most people don’t have any symptoms. Even without symptoms, liver conditions can develop 10 to 30-plus years after being infected. That’s why people can have hep C for decades without knowing it.

The good news is there are new and improved treatments available that can cure hep C in 95% of people. Treatment is usually one pill a day for a few months.

As a Louisiana Healthcare Connections member, your hep C treatment is covered at no cost to you!

Remember: Even if you are cured, you can get infected with hep C again.

Who should get tested for hepatitis C?

You may be at risk for hepatitis C and should contact your healthcare provider for a blood test if you:

  • Were born between 1945 and 1965 (Baby Boomer).
  • Received donated blood or organs before 1992.
  • Were notified that you received blood from a donor who later tested positive for hepatitis C.
  • Have ever injected illegal drugs—even if it was only once or many years ago.
  • Are on dialysis.
  • Are born to a parent living with hepatitis C.
  • Have ever gotten a tattoo or piercing in a non-professional setting where equipment such as ink, inkwells, or needles are re-used and potentially unsterilized.
  • Have had multiple sexual partners, or sexual contact with an HCV-positive person.

What are Syringe Service Programs?

Hep C is easily spread when people share syringes. Always use a new sterile syringe. If you don’t have a sterile syringe, rinsing with either bleach or water is better than nothing. Research suggests that bleach is effective in neutralizing Hep C most of the time. You can also find a Syringe Service program near you that will provide you with a free clean syringe.

Syringe Service Programs are legal in some parishes in Louisiana. These programs offer free syringes and supplies, HIV and HCV testing, linkage to care, and other support services. Find a location here: https://www.louisianahealthhub.org/sexual-health-and-stds/hepatitis/syringe-service/

Learn more: https://ldh.la.gov/page/1012