Find Hepatitis test
in Edgewood, MD.

Who should get tested for hepatitis?

According to the CDC, anyone who has been exposed to blood, body fluids, or needles from an infected person should get tested for hepatitis. This includes individuals who have had unprotected sex, shared needles for drug use, or have received a tattoo or piercing with non-sterile equipment. Additionally, those who have traveled to countries with high hepatitis prevalence, have been incarcerated, or were born to a mother with hepatitis should also be tested.

Importance of getting tested

Getting tested for hepatitis is crucial as it can lead to severe health complications if left untreated, including liver damage, cirrhosis, and liver cancer. Early detection allows for prompt treatment, potentially preventing these serious outcomes. Moreover, knowing your hepatitis status can help prevent the spread of the disease to others.

Hepatitis testing options in Edgewood, MD:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

Edgewood residents have access to several urgent care and walk-in clinics for hepatitis testing, including AllCare Primary & Immediate Care in Owings Mills and Ouch! Urgent Care in Elkridge. These facilities offer same-day and next-day appointments that can be conveniently booked through Solv’s website and mobile app.

Primary care providers

Primary care providers are another viable option for hepatitis testing. They can provide comprehensive care and follow-up after the test results.

Free STD testing and community health centers

For those who may not have insurance or are seeking low-cost options, free STD testing and community health centers in Edgewood and nearby areas provide hepatitis testing services.

At-home testing

At-home testing kits are also available for those who prefer privacy and convenience. These kits can be ordered online, used at home, and sent back to a lab for analysis.

Prevalence of hepatitis in Edgewood

While specific data for Edgewood is not readily available, Harford County, where Edgewood is located, has seen a rise in hepatitis cases in recent years, mirroring national trends. This increase underscores the importance of regular testing and awareness of the disease.

Risk factors related to hepatitis in Edgewood

Risk factors for hepatitis in Edgewood are similar to those in other parts of the country and include unprotected sex, intravenous drug use, and exposure to infected blood or body fluids.

Other STDs in Edgewood

In addition to hepatitis, other STDs such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV, and syphilis are also prevalent in Edgewood. Regular testing for all STDs is recommended for those who are sexually active, particularly if they have multiple partners or engage in unprotected sex.