Hepatitis Awareness Month: Get Tested. Get Treated. Get Cured. 

Hepatitis Awareness Month

May is Hepatitis Awareness Month, an opportunity to talk about a serious liver disease and to empower the community to take control of their health. It’s also a call to action for those over 18 to Get Tested. Get Treated. Get Cured.

According to The Centers for Disease Control (CDC), Hepatitis C is curable in more than 95% of cases. Early detection and timely treatment are key to preventing liver damage and further spread. That’s why Uncas Health District is highlighting the importance of Hep-C testing.

About Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C is a viral infection that attacks the liver. It’s important to understand the different forms:

  • Acute Hepatitis C: This is the short-term form of the disease. Many people experience no symptoms or mild flu-like symptoms that go unnoticed. Early detection is crucial, as some people can fight off the virus naturally.
  • Chronic Hepatitis C: If left untreated, acute Hepatitis C can progress to chronic Hepatitis C. This is a long-term infection that can damage the liver over time, potentially leading to cirrhosis (scarring) or even liver failure.

Who should get tested for Hep-C?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends Hepatitis C testing for everyone over the age of 18. Certain factors put you at higher risk, including:

  • Sharing needles or syringes with others
  • Having a history of blood transfusions before 1992
  • Having tattoos or piercings done with unsterile equipment
  • Having unprotected sex with someone who has Hepatitis C

Don’t wait for symptoms of Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C often has no noticeable symptoms in its early stages. The best way to know your status is to get tested. The good news? Hepatitis C is now highly curable with safe and effective medications. Early detection is key to preventing serious liver damage and getting the treatment you need to live a healthy life.

Get tested for Hep-C at Uncas Health District

Join us in raising awareness during Hepatitis C Awareness Month! Here’s how you can get involved:

  • National Hepatitis Testing Day: On May 17th, Uncas Health District will offer free Hepatitis C testing at St. Vincent dePaul Place in Norwich from 9:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m.
  • Mobile Health Team: We also offer testing through our Mobile Health Team, which brings vital services directly to communities throughout Uncas Health District.

Talk to your Doctor about Hep-C

Schedule an appointment with your doctor and ask about getting tested for Hepatitis C. Getting tested is a simple step towards protecting your health and well-being. Together, let’s make Hepatitis C a thing of the past!

Uncas Health District: We’re here for you

For more information on Hepatitis C testing and prevention or when our Mobile Health Team will be in your area, please visit our website.

Bringing Health Services to Your Community: Uncas Health District’s Mobile Health Team

Uncas Mobile Health Team

The Uncas Health District is committed to ensuring the well-being of all residents in our community. That’s why we’re proud to offer the Mobile Health Team, a free program that brings essential healthcare services directly to your community. Through the Mobile Health Team, we’re bringing essential services directly to the people who need them most.

Your health is our priority.

The Mobile Health Team is staffed by licensed healthcare professionals who are passionate about helping individuals and families achieve optimal health and well-being. We believe everyone deserves access to quality healthcare, and that’s why we remove the barriers of transportation and cost by bringing our services directly to where you are.

MEET THE MOBILE HEATH TEAM

We are proud to serve the residents of Bozrah, Franklin, Griswold, Lebanon, Lisbon, Montville, Norwich, Preston, Salem, Sprague, and Voluntown. The Mobile Health Team operates by visiting soup kitchens, driving through food pantries, and senior centers to provide education and vital services:

  • COVID-19 and flu vaccines: Protect yourself and your loved ones from preventable illnesses.
  • Rapid testing for Hepatitis C and HIV: Get tested quickly and discreetly in a safe and supportive environment.
  • Syringe services: Access clean needles and harm reduction resources.
  • Tick testing: Stay informed about the risk of tick-borne diseases.
  • Blood pressure screenings: Monitor your heart health and take control of your well-being.
  • Smoking cessation support: Get the help you need to quit smoking for good.
  • Prevention of sexually transmitted infections: Learn how to protect yourself and your partner(s).
  • Education on public health topics: Stay informed about important health issues affecting our community.

CHECK OUT THE MOBILE HEALTH TEAM CALENDAR

No question is too small.

Individuals who visit us at these events can approach us with any questions they may have. We are here to listen and provide support, and we strive to link you to care whenever necessary. For instance, if a Hepatitis C or HIV test result is reactive (positive), the Mobile Health Team can connect you to the appropriate care provider, such as an ID clinic or another healthcare facility.

Prevention is key.

The Mobile Health Team focuses on providing screenings and preventative services to help individuals and families stay healthy and informed. Our primary objective is to keep our communities safe and educated on public health issues.

Taking care of your health has never been easier.

The Uncas Health District’s Mobile Health Team is here to help you stay on top of your health and well-being. Visit our website or call us at 860-823-1189 to learn more about our upcoming events and schedule your visit.

Additional information

  • All services are free and confidential.
  • Some services may require pre-registration.

Through the Uncas Health District’s Mobile Health Team, we’re bringing essential services directly to the people who need them most. By working together, we can create a healthier and happier community for everyone.

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