Find Hepatitis test
in Chapel Hill, NC.

Who should get tested for hepatitis?

Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver, often caused by a virus. In the United States, the most common types are Hepatitis A, B, and C. According to the CDC, anyone who has been exposed to the virus, either through sexual contact, sharing needles, or from an infected mother to her newborn, should get tested. This includes individuals who have had multiple sexual partners, those with a history of other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), and healthcare workers who may have been exposed to infected blood.

Importance of getting tested

Early detection of hepatitis is crucial for effective treatment and prevention of further transmission. If left untreated, hepatitis can lead to serious health complications, including liver damage, liver cancer, and even death. Moreover, many people with hepatitis do not have symptoms until the disease has progressed, making regular testing important for those at risk.

Hepatitis testing options in Chapel Hill, NC:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

Urgent care and walk-in clinics are convenient options for hepatitis testing in Chapel Hill, NC. For instance, Carolina Urgent Care located at 1840 M.L.K. Jr Blvd, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, offers hepatitis testing services. You can book same-day and next-day testing appointments through Solv’s website and mobile app.

Primary care providers

Primary care providers are also a good option for hepatitis testing. They can provide ongoing care and support if you are diagnosed with hepatitis.

Free STD testing and community health centers

Free STD testing and community health centers in Chapel Hill also offer hepatitis testing. These centers provide services regardless of your ability to pay, making them an accessible option for many people.

At-home testing

At-home testing kits for hepatitis are another option. These kits are sent to your home, where you can take the test and send it back to a lab for analysis.

Prevalence of hepatitis in Chapel Hill

According to the CDC, the prevalence of hepatitis in Chapel Hill, located in Orange County, NC, is comparable to the national average. However, rates may vary depending on specific risk factors in the local population, such as drug use or unprotected sexual activity.

Risk factors related to hepatitis in Chapel Hill

Risk factors for hepatitis in Chapel Hill include unprotected sexual activity, intravenous drug use, and having a job that exposes you to human blood. Other risk factors include traveling to or living in areas with high hepatitis prevalence, such as certain parts of Asia and Africa, and having a clotting-factor disorder.

Other STDs in Chapel Hill

In addition to hepatitis, other STDs prevalent in Chapel Hill include gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV, and syphilis. The rates of these STDs are also comparable to national averages. It's important to note that having one STD can increase your risk of contracting another, including hepatitis. Therefore, regular testing for all STDs is recommended for those at risk.