Find Hepatitis test
in Hanover, PA.

Who should get tested for hepatitis?

Anyone who has been exposed to the virus through contaminated blood or body fluids should consider getting tested for hepatitis. This includes individuals who have shared needles, had unprotected sex, received a blood transfusion before 1992, or were born to a mother with hepatitis. Additionally, those who have lived in or traveled to areas with high rates of hepatitis, such as certain parts of Asia and Africa, should also consider getting tested.

Importance of getting tested

Getting tested for hepatitis is crucial because it allows for early detection and treatment, which can prevent serious health complications such as liver disease and cancer. According to the CDC, chronic hepatitis, if left untreated, can lead to liver cirrhosis or liver cancer, which are life-threatening conditions. Moreover, individuals who are unaware of their infection can unknowingly transmit the virus to others, further spreading the disease.

Hepatitis testing options in Hanover, PA:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

Urgent care and walk-in clinics offer convenient, same-day hepatitis testing. AllCare Primary & Immediate Care in Owings Mills, MD, is a highly-rated option nearby, with a short wait time and friendly staff. You can book same-day and next-day testing appointments at AllCare through Solv’s website and mobile app.

Primary care providers

Primary care providers can also provide hepatitis testing. If you have a regular doctor, they can order a hepatitis test during a routine check-up. If you don't have a regular doctor, Solv can help you find a trusted primary care provider in your area.

Free STD testing and community health centers

Community health centers often offer free or low-cost hepatitis testing. These centers are a valuable resource for individuals who may not have insurance or who may have limited financial resources.

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. This can be a convenient option for those who prefer privacy or who have difficulty accessing a healthcare provider.

Prevalence of hepatitis in Hanover

While specific data on the prevalence of hepatitis in Hanover, PA, is not readily available, it's important to note that hepatitis is a significant public health issue nationwide. According to the CDC, an estimated 2.4 million people in the United States are living with hepatitis C, and there were approximately 21,600 new hepatitis B infections in 2018.

Risk factors related to hepatitis in Hanover

Risk factors for hepatitis in Hanover are similar to those in other parts of the country. These include engaging in unprotected sex, sharing needles, and having a mother with hepatitis. Other risk factors include having a job that exposes you to human blood, being born in a country with high rates of hepatitis, and having certain medical conditions such as HIV.

Other STDs in Hanover

In addition to hepatitis, other STDs such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV, and syphilis are also present in Hanover. Regular testing for these STDs is recommended for anyone who is sexually active, particularly those with multiple partners or who engage in unprotected sex. Testing can be done at the same locations mentioned above, including urgent care clinics, primary care providers, community health centers, and at-home testing services.