Hepatitis C Program

What is hepatitis C?

Hepatitis C, also known as Hep C or HCV, is a treatable viral infection spread by contact with blood from a person with hepatitis C. Without treatment, hep C damages the liver, causing scars (cirrhosis) that make it difficult for the liver to function correctly. Over time, hepatitis C can cause liver cancer or stop the liver from functioning.

Hep C may not have any symptoms for years or even decades. Getting tested is the best way to find out if you have it.

What are the risk factors for hepatitis C?

The possibility of hepatitis C infection is greater for people who:

Share syringes, cookers, cotton or other injection equipment
Share snorting straws or crack pipes
Were born between the years of 1945 and 1965
Received a blood transfusion or organ transplant before 1992
Share tattoo or piercing equipment that has not been properly cleaned
Share personal items such as toothbrushes, razors, or nail clippers
Are HIV+
Have been incarcerated.

How to protect yourself from hepatitis C:

Don’t share syringes or other injecting or snorting equipment
Don’t share personal hygiene items such as razors, toothbrushes or nail clippers
Practice safe sex and use condoms
Make sure all tattoos and piercings are done by professionals trained in proper sterilization techniques.

Treatment

There are new medications available that can treat hepatitis C in as little as 8 to 24 weeks with little or no side effects. These medications are covered by most insurance, including Medi-Cal. Talk to your doctor about what treatment is best for you.

Testing

Identifying undiagnosed hepatitis C infections is one of the most effective tools at preventing the spread of this virus. Testing services are available at the following locations:

(Please call for times and possible fees.)

Your Medical Provider

Humboldt County Public Health Clinic
707-268-2108

North Coast AIDS Project (NorCAP)
707-268-2132

Humboldt Area Center for Harm Reduction (HACHR)
707-298-9393

United Indian Health Services
707-825-5010

Open Door Mobile Health Services
707-443-4666

Planned Parenthood
707-442-5700

Redwoods Rural Health Center in Redway
707-923-2783

Southern Humboldt Community Clinic in Garberville
707-923-3925

K’ima:w Medical Center – Hoopa
530-625-4261