Hepatitis A, B, C

The Duplin County Health Department provides education, screening, and referral services for Hepatitis A, B, and C, three different types of liver infections caused by separate viruses. Early detection, prevention, and treatment are key to protecting your health and preventing the spread to others.

What is Hepatitis?

Hepatitis means inflammation of the liver. It can be caused by viruses, alcohol use, toxins, or other medical conditions. The most common types of viral hepatitis in the U.S. are Hepatitis A, B, and C—each spreads in different ways and affects people differently.

Understanding the Differences

Hepatitis A

• Spread by: Contaminated food, water, or close contact with someone infected
• Vaccine available: ✅ Yes
• Chronic infection: ❌ No – usually clears on its own
• Prevention: Vaccination, good hygiene, safe food practices

Hepatitis B

• Spread by: Blood, unprotected sex, or from mother to baby at birth
• Vaccine available: ✅ Yes
• Chronic infection: ✅ Possible – especially if infected as a child
• Prevention: Vaccination, practicing safe sex, avoiding needle sharing

Hepatitis C

• Spread by: Blood-to-blood contact (e.g., sharing needles, unsafe tattoos)
• Vaccine available: ❌ No
• Chronic infection: ✅ Common – can lead to serious liver disease
• Prevention: Avoid sharing needles and use safe injection practices; regular testing for high-risk individuals

Services We Offer

• Hepatitis A & B vaccinations
• Hepatitis B and C screenings
• Education on prevention and transmission
• Referrals for treatment and follow-up care

Who Should Get Tested or Vaccinated?

• People who use injection or recreational drugs
• Individuals with multiple sex partners
• Men who have sex with men (MSM)
• Healthcare or correctional facility workers
• Anyone born between 1945–1965 (for Hep C testing)
• Travelers to countries with higher hepatitis A risk