The S.C. Department of Public Health is promoting hepatitis A and B vaccines and hepatitis C testing and treatment as part of World Hepatitis Day.
Based on a release from S.C. Dept. of Public Health.
COLUMBIA, S.C. — The South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) joined individuals and organizations worldwide on July 28 to recognize World Hepatitis Day, according to DPH.
This year’s message focuses on two points: hepatitis C is now easier to treat, and vaccines are available for hepatitis A and B, according to DPH.
Hepatitis refers to inflammation of the liver commonly caused by viral infections, according to DPH. Without diagnosis and care, viral hepatitis can lead to chronic liver disease, liver failure, cancer or death. Many forms of hepatitis cause few or no symptoms at first, making routine testing important, according to DPH.
Hepatitis A and hepatitis B are both vaccine-preventable, according to DPH. Hepatitis B is highly contagious and can be spread through blood or certain bodily fluids. Public health experts recommend the timely birth dose of the hepatitis B vaccine for all newborns along with completion of the full vaccine series on schedule, according to DPH.
The hepatitis A vaccine is recommended for all children and teens as well as adults at increased risk of exposure, including travelers and people in community settings where outbreaks may occur, according to DPH.
Hepatitis C is not vaccine-preventable, but effective treatment is available, according to DPH. Testing is simple and widely offered through community clinics, health centers and public health departments. Once diagnosed, hepatitis C can often be cured in eight to 12 weeks with once-daily medications, according to DPH.
“Testing for viral hepatitis is quick, easy and incredibly important,” said Ren Ruggiero, DPH Viral Hepatitis Coordinator. “Because many types of hepatitis cause no symptoms in their early stages, regular testing helps people get connected to care before liver damage occurs.”
Millions of people in the United States are estimated to be living with viral hepatitis, many without knowing it, according to DPH. Residents can find a hepatitis vaccination, testing or treatment location through DPH’s HIV, STD, and Hepatitis Service Locator.
