The Talbot County Health Department reminds residents that Sunday, July 28th marks World Hepatitis Day. This global health observance aims to raise awareness about viral hepatitis, which affects millions worldwide.
Hepatitis is inflammation of the liver, often caused by viral infections. There are five main types of viral hepatitis: A, B, C, D and E. Hepatitis B and C are the most common, leading to chronic disease in hundreds of millions of people globally.
Testing is important as people with hepatitis are often unaware they’re infected. The disease can progress silently for years before symptoms become apparent. That’s why regular testing is crucial, especially for those at higher risk.
Risk factors for hepatitis include intravenous drug use, unprotected sex, sharing personal items like razors or toothbrushes with an infected person, and exposure to contaminated blood or bodily fluids. Some forms of hepatitis can also be transmitted from mother to child during childbirth.
COMING SOON: Starting in August 2024, the Health Department will offer free hepatitis testing, which also includes HIV screening. The process takes approximately 20 minutes and will be available on a walk-in basis. Testing and screening will be available Mondays from 8:00 a.m. to noon and on Thursdays from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Health Department’s new facility at 510 Cadmus Lane in Easton.
For more information about hepatitis, call 410-819-5600 or visit the page linked below.