Hepatitis Awareness

Did you know that members of the LGBTQ community are more likely to contract Hepatitis A, B, and C? Hepatitis is a collection of viruses that can cause liver disease. Unfortunately, they’re viruses that many people have heard of but perhaps don’t fully understand, with a person dying every 30 seconds from a Hepatitis-related illness.

·     Hepatitis A is usually transmitted through digesting fecal matter - even a microscopic amount. It can be spread through direct contact or contaminated food and water. There is a vaccine for Hep A.

·     Hepatitis B is spread through sexual body fluids and blood. It is the Hepatitis virus that is most commonly sexually transmitted, and it is MUCH more contagious than HIV. It can also be spread through infected objects, like needles or even razors. Having Hepatitis B also puts you at risk of contracting Hepatitis D. There is a vaccine for Hep B.

·     Hepatitis C is spread through blood, either through direct contact or an object such as a needle, syringe, or razor. Hepatitis C is hardy too - it can live on objects for up to 6 weeks - and there is no vaccine for Hep C.

Most people with Hepatitis do not have symptoms, so it’s crucial to get tested. While at times a Hepatitis infection can be acute and go away on its own, it can also become a chronic infection that develops into serious liver conditions, including permanent liver damage, liver cancer, and even liver failure.

The best prevention against Hepatitis is to receive the vaccines for Hepatitis A and B, avoid sharing objects like needles and syringes, and use barrier methods during sex, like condoms.