Find Hepatitis test
in Portsmouth, VA.

Who should get tested for hepatitis?

Anyone who has been exposed to the virus should get tested for hepatitis. This includes individuals who have shared needles or other drug paraphernalia, had unprotected sex with an infected person, or have traveled to areas with high rates of hepatitis. In addition, those who have received a blood transfusion or organ transplant before 1992, when widespread screening of the blood supply began in the U.S., should also be tested. According to the CDC, baby boomers born between 1945 and 1965 are five times more likely to have hepatitis C than other adults, so this group should also be tested.

Importance of getting tested

Getting tested for hepatitis is crucial because it can lead to serious health problems if left untreated, including liver damage, liver cancer, and even death. Early detection allows for prompt treatment, which can prevent these complications and improve quality of life. According to the CDC, many people with hepatitis do not have symptoms and do not know they are infected, so regular testing is essential.

Hepatitis testing options in Portsmouth, VA:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

Urgent care centers such as Emergency Medical Response in Portsmouth, VA, offer hepatitis testing. These facilities often have shorter wait times than traditional doctor's offices and can provide same-day or next-day appointments, which can be booked through Solv.

Primary care providers

Primary care providers can also test for hepatitis. If you have a primary care doctor, they can order the test and interpret the results for you.

Free STD testing and community health centers

There are also free STD testing and community health centers in and around Portsmouth that offer hepatitis testing. These centers provide services regardless of your ability to pay.

At-home testing

At-home testing is another option. These tests can be ordered online, done at home, and then sent to a lab for analysis. Results are typically available within a few days.

Prevalence of hepatitis in Portsmouth

The prevalence of hepatitis in Portsmouth is consistent with national trends. According to the CDC, there were approximately 2.4 million people living with hepatitis C in the U.S. in 2016. While specific data for Portsmouth is not readily available, it is reasonable to assume that the prevalence in this city is similar to that of nearby cities and counties.

Risk factors related to hepatitis in Portsmouth

Risk factors for hepatitis in Portsmouth are similar to those in other parts of the country. These include drug use, unprotected sex, and having received a blood transfusion or organ transplant before 1992.

Other STDs in Portsmouth

In addition to hepatitis, other STDs such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV, and syphilis are also prevalent in Portsmouth. As with hepatitis, regular testing for these STDs is crucial for early detection and treatment.