Find Hepatitis test
in Frederick, MD.

Who should get tested for hepatitis?

Hepatitis is a serious condition that can lead to liver disease. It's important for anyone who may have been exposed to the virus to get tested. This includes individuals who have shared needles, had unprotected sex, received a tattoo or piercing with unsterilized tools, or traveled to countries where hepatitis is common. According to the CDC, people born between 1945 and 1965, also known as baby boomers, are five times more likely to have hepatitis C and should also get tested.

Importance of getting tested

Getting tested for hepatitis is crucial because many people do not experience symptoms until the disease has progressed, which can lead to severe liver damage. Early detection allows for prompt treatment, which can prevent the disease from progressing and reduce the risk of transmission to others. According to the CDC, testing and treatment of hepatitis C can cure over 90% of cases.

Hepatitis testing options in Frederick, MD:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

Urgent care and walk-in clinics provide quick, convenient testing services. Fast Track Urgent Care in Kensington, MD, and Silver Spring, MD, are highly rated and offer hepatitis testing. You can book same-day and next-day appointments through Solv’s website and mobile app.

Primary care providers

Primary care providers can also offer hepatitis testing. If you have a long-term relationship with a provider, this may be a comfortable and convenient option for you.

Free STD testing and community health centers

Frederick, MD, has several community health centers that offer free or low-cost STD testing, including hepatitis. These centers provide confidential testing and counseling services.

At-home testing

At-home testing kits for hepatitis are also available. These kits allow you to collect a sample at home and send it to a lab for testing. Results are usually available online within a few days.

Prevalence of hepatitis in Frederick

Frederick, MD, like many areas in the United States, has seen an increase in hepatitis cases over the years. Comparatively, Frederick County has a lower prevalence of hepatitis than nearby counties like Fayette County and Sussex County. However, it's important to note that many cases of hepatitis go undetected, so the actual number of cases may be higher.

Risk factors related to hepatitis in Frederick

Risk factors for hepatitis in Frederick include drug use, unprotected sex, and travel to countries where hepatitis is common. Socioeconomic factors such as access to healthcare and education also play a role in the prevalence of hepatitis.

Other STDs in Frederick

In addition to hepatitis, other STDs such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV, and syphilis are also prevalent in Frederick. These diseases often share similar risk factors and transmission methods with hepatitis. Therefore, getting tested for all STDs is crucial for anyone at risk.