Find Hepatitis test
in Columbus, OH.

Who should get tested for hepatitis?

Anyone who has been exposed to the hepatitis virus, either through unprotected sexual contact, sharing needles, or from mother to child during childbirth, should consider getting tested. This also includes individuals who have traveled to regions with high rates of hepatitis, or who have been in close contact with a person diagnosed with the disease. Additionally, healthcare and public safety workers who have been exposed to blood on the job, and individuals with certain medical conditions requiring blood-clotting factor concentrates, should also consider testing.

Importance of getting tested

Getting tested for hepatitis is crucial as it allows for early detection and treatment, reducing the risk of severe liver damage and other complications. According to the CDC, many people with hepatitis do not know they are infected, which can lead to the disease spreading unknowingly. Early detection can also ensure that necessary steps are taken to prevent the spread of the virus to others.

Hepatitis testing options in Columbus, OH:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

Urgent care centers such as Carbon Health Urgent Care in Upper Arlington offer hepatitis testing services. These centers provide convenient, same-day or next-day appointments that can be booked through Solv’s website and mobile app.

Primary care providers

Primary care providers in Columbus, OH, also offer hepatitis testing. Your primary care doctor can provide a referral for testing if they determine it's necessary based on your risk factors and symptoms.

Free STD testing and community health centers

There are also free STD testing centers and community health centers in Columbus that provide hepatitis testing. These centers are a valuable resource for those who may not have insurance or who prefer a more community-oriented setting.

At-home testing

At-home testing kits for hepatitis are also available and can be a convenient option for those who prefer to test in the privacy of their own home. These kits can be ordered online and typically require a small blood sample that is sent back to a lab for analysis.

Prevalence of hepatitis in Columbus

Columbus, situated in Franklin County, has seen a steady increase in hepatitis cases over the years. This trend is consistent with national data from the CDC, which shows an increase in hepatitis cases across the country. However, compared to nearby counties such as Fayette County and Washington County, Franklin County has a higher prevalence of hepatitis.

Risk factors related to hepatitis in Columbus

Risk factors for hepatitis in Columbus include unprotected sex, sharing needles, and having close contact with a person who has hepatitis. Other risk factors include traveling to regions with high rates of hepatitis and having certain medical conditions that require blood-clotting factor concentrates.

Other STDs in Columbus

In addition to hepatitis, other common STDs in Columbus include gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV, and syphilis. Like hepatitis, these STDs can be detected through testing at local healthcare providers, urgent care centers, or at-home testing kits. It's important to get tested if you're at risk, as early detection and treatment can prevent complications and the spread of these diseases to others.