To learn more, click on one of the links below:
What is Hepatitis C?
Hepatitis is an inflamation of the liver. Hepatitis C is a virus that causes inflammation of the liver and can go on to cause longterm liver damage such as cirrhosis and cancer.
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Hepatitis C is spread through direct blood to blood contact with someone who has the virus. This includes:
- Injection drug users who share their needles, spoons, filters and/or water.
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Sharing other drug paraphernalia like straws, bills & pipes also put people at risk.
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People who share razors or toothbrushes with someone who has Hepatitis C
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People who get tattoos or a body piercing with dirty (e.g. unsterile) needles or needles that have the infected blood on them.
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People who received blood transfusions or blood products before 1992.
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Hepatitis C positive mothers have a 5-10% chance of transmitting the virus to their infant before or at the time of birth.
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There is a 0-10% risk of Hepatitis C transmission through unprotected intercourse.
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Many individuals living with Hepatitis C show no signs and feel healthy for years. However, they can still spread the infection to others.
Symptoms include feeling tired, muscle and joint pain, loss of appetite, yellowing of the skin and eyes (Jaundice), weight loss, nausea and abdominal pain.
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They only way to find out for sure is by having a blood test. It may take up to 9 weeks before Hepatitis C would be detected in a blood test after someone has been exposed; commonly in 6 to 9 weeks, but sometimes longer.
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Is there a cure for Hepatitis C?
There is no cure for Hepatitis C and in most cases; people with Hepatitis do NOT get rid of it. They have Hepatitis C for the rest of their lives. Many cases require lifelong medical management in order to control the infection to prevent liver failure. There is antiviral therapy available to help prevent the progression of the virus.
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There is no vaccine available to prevent Hepatitis C.
- Never share needles or other drug equipment
- Never share snorting or smoking equipment
- Make sure that the tattoo or body piercer follows the right steps to prevent blood infections
- Don't share personal items like toothbrushes, razors or nail scissors
- Use condoms all the time
- Get tested if you have any concerns; click here for information on the clinic and how to get tested
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It is important to get immunized for Hepatitis A & B. These vaccines are available for FREE to those who are infected with Hepatitis C. Here are some other tips:
- Eat a well balanced diet
- Avoid drinking alcohol
- See your doctor regularly
- Bandage all open cuts and sores until they are healed
- Exercise regularly; it relieves stress and increases energy
- Use over-the-counter medication carefully; talk to your pharmacist because acetaminophen (e.g. like Tylenol) can affect your liver; use it only if your doctor tells you to
- Do not share personal hygiene items with members in your household. Do not donate blood or organs.
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For up-to-date information on Hepatitis C, click here.
AIDS Thunder Bay also offers services, including support groups. For more information, call their office at 345-1516 or toll free at1-800-488-5840. You can also visit their website; click here.
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