Hepatitis C (HCV) is a liver infection that is transmitted through direct exposure to an infected person’s blood. Hepatitis C can develop into a serious disease resulting in long-term health problems such as liver cancer or liver failure. Current hepatitis C treatments can prevent severe outcomes and cure most cases by taking 8 to 12 weeks of oral medications. Although there are several ways to contract hepatitis C, it is most often spread through individuals who share contaminated needles.
As of April 2020, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that all adults aged 18 years and older be tested for hepatitis C at least once in their lifetime. More frequent testing is also recommended for people who are at increased risk for hepatitis C, such as individuals who:
- Use injection drugs or did so in the past;
- Have tested positive for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV);
- Have a history of kidney dialysis;
- Have received blood transfusions or organ transplants before July 1992;
- Have a history of sexually transmitted infections, or are otherwise engaged in high-risk sexual activity, or
- Children born to mothers who have hepatitis C.
Testing Schedule
Services available include:
- Free onsite testing (daily) and off-site testing
- Referrals and linkage to related care services
- HCV information and resources
Location | Date and Times |
---|---|
Drumcastle Government Center | Monday through Friday, except for holidays |
Dundalk Health Center | By appointment only |
Eastern Family Resource Center | By appointment only |
Essex Health Center | By appointment only |
Hannah More Health Center | By appointment only |
Woodlawn Health Center at O.W.E Center | By appointment only |