July 28, 2012 is World Hepatitis Day, an annual event to promote awareness of hepatitis B and C, two forms of life-threatening liver disease. It is also a day to show support for persons living with hepatitis B or C

In reference to the need to raise awareness about how the viruses are transmitted or what the symptoms are, this year’s theme for World Hepatitis Day is “This is hepatitis….It’s closer than you think. Know it. Confront it. Get tested.”

Hepatitis B is a virus that attacks the liver. It is spread through infected blood, semen or vaginal fluids.  Some ways it is spread include:

  • By coming into contact with infected blood (even infected blood on razors or toothbrushes).
  • By having unprotected vaginal or anal sex with someone who is already infected.
  • Through oral sex with an infected partner.
  • From mother to child during child birth.
  • From sharing needles used for injecting drugs

    • Check our website for lots of info on preventing, testing and treating Hep B:  https://www.centreforsexuality.ca/hepatitis_b_virus.html

    Hepatitis C also attacks your liver. The virus is carried in the blood, and is passed through blood-to-blood contact. The virus is most commonly spread through sharing or reusing items such as personal items (toothbrushes, razors), piercing or tatooing needles and equipment, and drug -use equipment like needles or pipes. It is possible to pass the virus through unprotected sex if blood is exchanged during activity.

    More info on Hep C is available at:  http://www.hepcinfo.ca/en/simple/staying-safe

    And for more info on World Hepatitis Day, visit;  http://www.whdcanada.ca/world_hepatitis_day.html