The Viral Hepatitis Service will be at a stall in Chorley Market all day on Tuesday 28 July raising awareness in relation to Viral Hepatitis. The team would like anyone to drop in and find out more about the disease, and speak to a member of staff if they have any questions. In addition to this, on Monday 27 July the Communicable Disease service will be at the Minerva Health Centre to answer any questions and give out information.
Helen Newsham, Healthcare Support Worker in the Communicable Disease Services at Lancashire Care NHS Foundation Trust said:
"World Hepatitis Day is a great opportunity to educate people about the different viruses and the prevention of them whilst also raising awareness of the infection. Hepatitis can affect anyone and is the cause of 4000 deaths a day. Knowing the facts save lives, getting tested is quick and simple so we are encouraging anyone who is concerned to contact the Trust Community Hepatitis Team on 01257 245414."
You can reduce the risk of transmission by avoiding sharing toothbrushes and razors, going overseas for dental procedures, unprotected sex and unsterilized tattoo needles.
Symptoms are not always visible however signs to look out for are:
- Muscle and joint pain
- High temperature of 38C or above
- Nausea
- Occasionally, yellowing of the eyes and skin(Jaundice)
- Depression
- Fatigue
- Babies born to mothers with Hepatitis B or C (through Childbirth)
- Close contacts of people with chronic hep B infection
- Healthcare workers
- Prison Population
- People who inject drugs
- People with multiple sexual partners
- Travellers to high risk countries
If anyone is concerned about possible infection after being put at risk or experiencing the above symptoms, they should contact their GP in the first instance.
World Hepatitis is led by the World Health Organisation alongside World Hepatitis Alliance and takes place every year on 28 July to raise global awareness of Hepatitis. There are 5 different Hepatitis viruses and worldwide there are currently 400 million people living with 2 of those 5. Every year 1.4 million people die from viral hepatitis, yet all of these deaths could be prevented.