VIRAL HEPATITIS
There are a number of different types of viruses that fall under the viral hepatitis banner, including hepatitis A, B, C, D and even E! The most common ones are A, B and C. Hepatitis A is a water-borne virus, which means it can live in, and is transmitted in, dirty water and poor sanitation. Hepatitis B and C are blood-borne, meaning that the viruses can be transmitted via the blood.
01
Do I need a specific test to check to see if I have either Hepatitis B or Hepatitis C?
Yes….to test for either of these BBVs (blood borne viruses), a special test has to be requested for each one. (Routine blood tests will not check for BBVs).
02
Where can I get tested? Does it have to be with my GP?
You can visit a GUM clinic to get tested (either ‘drop-in’ and wait, or book an appointment)
For further information: http://www.nhs.uk/chq/Pages/972.aspx?CategoryID=68
03
What happens if I have a positive result for either Hepatitis B or Hepatitis C?
You will most probably be asked to have repeat and/or further blood tests to confirm diagnosis, and then referred to your GP. (If you have tested positive for Hepatitis B, and if it can be determined that it was a recent transmission (within 7 days), you should be given the HBIG (Hepatitis B Immuno Globulin) vaccination, followed by the 1st dose of the routine vaccine).
04
Can I be vaccinated against Hepatitis C?
No, there is no current vaccination to protect you from hepatitis C.
05
What is the Skipton Fund?
The Skipton Fund is a UK-wide ex gratia payment scheme to make payments to certain people who were infected with hepatitis C through treatment with NHS blood or blood products prior to September 1991 and other persons eligible for payment in accordance with the scheme's provisions.
For further information please click on the following link: http://skiptonfund.org/contact.php
