Find Hepatitis test
in Franklin, NC.

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, had unprotected sex, received a blood transfusion or organ transplant before 1992, or have been on long-term kidney dialysis. It's also recommended for people born between 1945 and 1965, as this age group has a higher rate of hepatitis C, according to the CDC.

Importance of getting tested

Getting tested for hepatitis is crucial because it often shows no symptoms until the liver is severely damaged. Early detection can help prevent serious health complications like liver cancer and cirrhosis. Moreover, knowing your status can help prevent the spread of the virus to others.

Hepatitis testing options in Franklin, NC:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

Urgent care centers like Smoky Mountain Urgent Care and Family Medicine Center in nearby Bryson City offer hepatitis testing. They provide same-day and next-day appointments which can be booked through Solv’s website and mobile app.

Primary care providers

Primary care providers can also conduct hepatitis tests. If you have a regular doctor, they can order a blood test to check for the virus.

Free STD testing and community health centers

Community health centers often offer free or low-cost testing for hepatitis and other STDs. Medlink in Clayton, GA, is one such center near Franklin.

At-home testing

At-home testing kits are another option. These can be ordered online and used in the privacy of your own home. The samples are then sent to a lab for analysis.

Prevalence of hepatitis in Franklin

While specific data on hepatitis prevalence in Franklin, NC, is not readily available, the state of North Carolina has seen a significant increase in hepatitis cases in recent years. According to the CDC, North Carolina ranks above the national average for hepatitis C infections.

Risk factors related to hepatitis in Franklin

Risk factors for hepatitis in Franklin are likely to mirror those at the national level. These include drug use, unprotected sex, and having a tattoo or piercing done with unsterilized tools. The rural nature of Franklin and surrounding areas may also contribute to higher rates of hepatitis, as access to healthcare and education about the disease can be limited.

Other STDs in Franklin

In addition to hepatitis, other STDs such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV, and syphilis are also of concern in Franklin and surrounding areas. Like hepatitis, these diseases often show no symptoms until they have progressed, making regular testing critical.