Find Hepatitis test
in Malibu, CA.

Who should get tested for hepatitis?

Anyone who is at risk of exposure should consider getting tested for hepatitis. This includes individuals who have been in close contact with someone diagnosed with hepatitis, those who have shared needles or other drug paraphernalia, and individuals who have unprotected sex with multiple partners. Additionally, healthcare and public safety workers exposed to blood on the job, and travelers to countries with high rates of hepatitis should also consider testing. According to the CDC, people born between 1945 and 1965, often referred to as baby boomers, are five times more likely to have hepatitis C, and should also get tested.

Importance of getting tested

Getting tested for hepatitis is crucial as it can lead to serious health problems if left untreated, including liver damage, cirrhosis, and liver cancer. Early detection can help prevent these complications and can lead to effective treatment. Moreover, knowing your status can help prevent the spread of the disease to others.

Hepatitis testing options in Malibu, CA:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

Urgent care and walk-in clinics like Carbon Health in Thousand Oaks and Endure Urgent Care in Culver City offer hepatitis testing. These facilities often have shorter wait times and extended hours, making them a convenient option. You can book same-day and next-day testing appointments at these locations through Solv’s website and mobile app.

Primary care providers

Your primary care provider can also conduct hepatitis testing. If you have a longstanding relationship with your provider, this may be a comfortable and convenient option for you.

Free STD testing and community health centers

There are also community health centers in and around Malibu that offer free or low-cost hepatitis testing. These centers are a valuable resource, especially for those without insurance or with limited financial resources.

At-home testing

At-home testing kits are another option for hepatitis testing. These kits can be ordered online and used in the privacy of your own home. They require a small blood sample, which is then sent to a lab for analysis.

Prevalence of hepatitis in Malibu

While specific data for Malibu is not readily available, Los Angeles County, where Malibu is located, has seen an increase in hepatitis cases in recent years, according to the CDC. This trend is in line with national data, which shows a rise in hepatitis, particularly hepatitis C. It's important to note that hepatitis rates can vary widely from one city or county to another, influenced by factors such as population density, healthcare access, and local prevention efforts.

Risk factors related to hepatitis in Malibu

Risk factors for hepatitis in Malibu are similar to those in other parts of the country. These include unprotected sex, drug use, and close contact with someone who has the disease. Additionally, individuals with certain medical conditions, such as HIV or those on long-term hemodialysis, have a higher risk.

Other STDs in Malibu

In addition to hepatitis, other STDs such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV, and syphilis are also present in Malibu. As with hepatitis, the rates of these diseases can vary based on a variety of factors. Regular testing for all STDs/STIs is recommended for anyone who is sexually active and at risk.