HEPATITIS B&C

What is Hepatitis?

Hepatitis is a disease of the liver. There are several types of Hepatitis, but we're primarily concerned with Hepatitis B & C. Hepatitis B can be transmitted sexually, perinatally (from mother to child during child birth) and through blood. High risk groups include IV drug users, sexually active homosexual men, heterosexuals with multiple sexual partners, infants born to infected mothers, hemodialysis patients (those with kidney failure that need to use a filtering machine to clean their blood), health care workers and those who have personal contact with someone infected with Hep B.

Am I in danger of getting Heptatitis if I get a tattoo or piercing?

There are questions about the possible link between tattoos, piercings and Hepatitis. If you are thinking about getting a piercing or a tattoo, make sure it is done by a professional who follows health and safety guidelines. Please don't pierce yourself or a friend!

How can I protect myelf from Heptatits?

To learn how to prevent Hepatitis in your home and daily life, read the guidelines provided by the HVC Advocate.