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| Wednesday, May 14, 2008 |
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Orange County Health Department6101 Lake Ellenor Drive |
The Goal of the Hepatitis Prevention and Control Program is to provide a comprehensive hepatitis program for Orange County residents and visitors to reduce hepatitis cases.
To schedule an appointment for free hepatitis vaccine and testing, to get more information on hepatitis and the services of this program, or to find out if you may be at-risk, call: 407.858.1400 Ext. 1135.
Viral hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver caused by one or more viruses. The hepatitis viruses that concern us the most in the United States are Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C.
Hepatitis A is spread by ingesting contaminated water or ice, eating food handled by infected persons with improperly washed hands, and by oral-anal-sex practices.
Hepatitis B is spread by contact with blood and body fluids of an infected person through needle sharing, needle sticks, unprotected sex, pregnancy, birth or breastfeeding. Contact with an infected family member may also increase one’s risk.
Hepatitis C is spread by contact with blood of an infected person and through sexual activity. Up to 85% of those infected with hepatitis C will develop long-term infection. Some will develop liver disease, though it may take several years. There is no vaccine or cure, but medications are available for treatment.
| Regardless of the type of hepatitis, the symptoms are similar: |
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It is important to know if you have been exposed to hepatitis so that you can…
...get treated, if necessary
...be checked for liver disease
...learn how to prevent further damage to your liver
...learn how to prevent the spread of hepatitis to others
Additional Information on Hepatitis
