Hepatitis C Program

Due to COVID-19, Healthy Communities programs are not providing any community trainings or events at this time. If you are a client of Public Health and wish to speak with your case manager, please contact them directly. Thank you.

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