Let’s Talk About Hepatitis C: Why It Matters and How We Can Help

Hepatitis C is a virus that affects your liver. Over time, it can cause serious problems like liver damage, liver cancer, or even liver failure. But many people don’t know they have it because it can live in the body quietly for years.

The virus spreads through blood. This can happen through sharing needles, getting tattoos or piercings in places that don’t use clean tools, or even from medical procedures done before safety rules were updated. It can also be passed from a pregnant person to their baby.

Why Should You Care?

Hepatitis C is more common than many people think. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says it’s estimated that between 150,000 and 200,000 people are currently living with hepatitis C. The rate of acute hepatitis C in Florida is 1,435 per 100,000 people.

If left untreated, hepatitis C can lead to serious health problems. But when caught early, it can often be cured with medication. That’s why routine screening is so important.

Who Should Get Tested?

The CDC recommends that all adults get tested for hepatitis C at least once in their lives. Pregnant individuals should also be tested during each pregnancy. People who have been exposed to blood through certain activities or medical procedures may need to be tested more than once.

Hepatitis C doesn’t care how old you are or where you’re from. It can affect anyone. That’s why testing is for everyone, not just people who think they might be at risk.

What Can You Do?

Ask your doctor about getting tested. It’s a quick blood test.
Avoid sharing personal items like razors or toothbrushes that might have blood on them.
Make sure any tattoos or piercings are done in places that follow safety rules.
Talk to your loved ones. Encourage them to get tested too.

How Care Resource Is Helping

At Care Resource, we’re committed to supporting our community’s health. We offer hepatitis C screenings and connect people to treatment if needed. Our team is here to answer your questions, guide you through the process, and make sure you feel supported every step of the way.

We’re proud to be part of the national effort to reduce hepatitis C infections. By offering routine testing and helping people get care early, we’re doing our part to support the community and reduce new infections.