The Chief Medical Officers of Health of the four Atlantic Provinces are advising individuals with risk factors for Hepatitis C to talk with their family doctor about getting tested.
Hepatitis C infection is caused by a virus and can result in liver disease. It is carried in a person's blood and body fluids. In many cases, a person may be infected with Hepatitis C without experiencing any symptoms. The disease may take years or even decades to appear.
People at risk of Hepatitis C infection include those who:
have a history of injection drug use (such as street drugs and steroids) involving needles shared with others;
received blood or blood products prior to June, 1990 (after that date, blood was screened for Hepatitis C and the risk has become very low);
were exposed to infection through needle injuries, tattoos and body piercing with contaminated equipment; and,
in rare cases, have had sexual contact with an infected person.
In each of the Atlantic Provinces, reported cases of Hepatitis C have increased as testing for the disease has become more commonplace.
To avoid potential contact with Hepatitis C —
ensure needles are clean;
do not share toothbrushes and razors with others; and
always practice safe sex.
People diagnosed with Hepatitis C should discuss ways to reduce the impact and transmission of the disease with their family doctor.
For more information on Hepatitis C, contact your local provincial Public Health Office or the Department of Health and Social Services.
For more information contact: Dr Lamont Sweet, Chief Health Officer at (902) 368-4996