The Florida Department of Health in Orange County (DOH-Orange) recognizes July 28, 2018 as World Hepatitis Day. The intent of the annual observance is to increase the awareness and understanding of viral hepatitis as a major global health threat. All types of viral hepatitis can cause inflammation of the liver; however, hepatitis B and C infections can result in a lifelong, chronic infection. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have an online assessment for hepatitis risk at:  https://www.cdc.gov/hepatitis/riskassessment/index.htm. The five minute Viral Hepatitis Risk Assessment provides individuals with a personalized report. 

The World Health Organization estimates that globally in 2015, approximately 325 million persons were infected with hepatitis B virus (HBV) or hepatitis C virus. Among the estimated 257 million persons infected with HBV in 2015, nearly 900,000 died, primarily as a result of complications of cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. 

Hepatitis is characterized by inflammation of the liver. Hepatitis A, B, and C are the most common types of viral hepatitis in the United States. Symptoms of hepatitis, if they are present, include nausea, fever, weakness, loss of appetite and jaundice. Hepatitis A is transmitted by eating food or drinking water that has been contaminated with human waste (feces). Hepatitis B is spread through contact with the blood or body fluids of an infected person. Hepatitis C is usually spread through contact with blood containing the virus. There is no vaccine for hepatitis C (HCV). 

The goal of the DOH-Orange Hepatitis Prevention and Control Program is to reduce hepatitis cases among residents and visitors of Orange County. The program provides free Hepatitis vaccines and testing for high risk populations. In addition, it provides education, screening, counseling, and follow-up referrals.  For more information on the Orange County Hepatitis Prevention Program or schedule an appointment, please call 407-723-5054.