Preventing Hepatitis
There are many actions that you can take to reduce your chances of getting hepatitis. These include:
- Get the vaccines for hepatitis A and hepatitis B (there is currently no vaccine available for hepatitis C).
- Use a latex condom during sex.
- Don't share needles, inhalant devices, or take drugs.
- Practice good personal hygiene such as thorough handwashing.
- Don't use an infected person's personal items, such as razors or toothbrushes.
- Take precautions when getting any tattoos, body piercing or manicures/pedicures. Make sure the instruments are cleaned or disposable; or take your own manicure kit. Make sure tattoo ink is a new bottle used just for you.
- Take precaution when traveling to areas of the world with poor sanitation. Make sure you get immunized against hepatitis A beforehand.
It is very important that you take the preventive measures necessary, especially if you participate in risky behavior, live, or work in a high-risk environment, such as a nursing home, dormitory, day care center or restaurant.
Understanding Hepatitis C -- the Basics
Hepatitis C is a liver disease caused by an infection with the hepatitis C virus. The liver becomes inflamed and swollen and stops working as it should. Hepatitis C is a serious disease because the liver is needed to remove toxins that build up in the blood. Hepatitis C can destroy the liver and cause cirrhosis. It is the main cause of liver transplants in the world. After being infected with the hepatitis C virus, 55%-85% of people will develop a chronic infection. Once a chronic infection...
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