Public health is encouraging the public to “know their status” and get tested for viral hepatitis, an inflammation of the liver that can lead to life-threatening complications such as liver failure, cirrhosis and liver cancer.
To coincide with World Hepatitis Day on July 28, Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health (WDGPH) is offering free hepatitis B and C testing at clinics in Fergus, Guelph, Mount Forest, and Orangeville throughout this week.
Many people who are infected with the blood-borne virus are unaware that they are infected with hepatitis B or C.
In Canada, the following groups are most at risk: baby boomers born between 1945 and 1965 (as a result of unsafe medical procedures and blood transfusions); immigrants with a high prevalence of hepatitis in their country of origin; youth engaging in unsafe tattooing and sex practices; and persons at risk from injection drug use.
There is a vaccine to protect against hepatitis A and B.
“Although there is no vaccine for hepatitis C, it can be treated if diagnosed early,” said Dr. Nicola Mercer, medical officer of health and CEO for WDGPH. “It’s important to know your status and seek treatment if you test positive.”
Call 1-800-265-7293 to book an appointment for hepatitis B and C testing. WDGPH is also offering free immunization for hepatitis A and B for those who meet the eligibility criteria of the publicly-funded immunization schedule for Ontario.
Visit wdgpublichealth.ca for more information.
