Find Hepatitis test
in Santa Cruz, CA.

Who should get tested for hepatitis?

Anyone who has been exposed to the hepatitis virus should get tested, including those who have shared needles or other drug paraphernalia, those who have had unprotected sex with an infected person, and those who have traveled to areas with high rates of hepatitis. In addition, healthcare workers and those who live with someone who has hepatitis should also be tested. According to the CDC, people born between 1945 and 1965 should also be tested for Hepatitis C, as they are five times more likely to be infected.

Importance of getting tested

Getting tested for hepatitis is crucial, as it can lead to serious health complications if left untreated, including liver disease and liver cancer. Moreover, those who are infected can unknowingly spread the virus to others. Early detection through testing allows for prompt treatment, which can significantly reduce the risk of complications and prevent the spread of the virus.

Hepatitis testing options in Santa Cruz, CA:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

There are several urgent care and walk-in clinics in Santa Cruz and the surrounding areas that offer hepatitis testing. One such location is Carbon Health in San Jose, which has received high ratings for its short wait times and clean facilities.

Primary care providers

Primary care providers can also administer hepatitis tests. If you have a primary care physician, consider scheduling an appointment for testing. If you don't have a primary care physician, Solv can help you find a trusted healthcare provider in your area.

Free STD testing and community health centers

There are also several community health centers in Santa Cruz that offer free or low-cost STD testing, including hepatitis.

At-home testing

For those who prefer privacy or can't make it to a clinic, at-home hepatitis testing kits are available. These kits can be ordered online, used at home, and then sent back to a lab for analysis.

Prevalence of hepatitis in Santa Cruz

While specific data for Santa Cruz is not readily available, according to the CDC, California as a whole has a moderate prevalence of hepatitis compared to other states. However, it's important to note that the prevalence of hepatitis can vary widely from city to city and county to county.

Risk factors related to hepatitis in Santa Cruz

Risk factors for hepatitis in Santa Cruz are similar to those in other parts of the country. These include drug use, unprotected sex, and travel to areas with high rates of hepatitis. Additionally, certain populations, such as baby boomers, are at a higher risk for Hepatitis C.

Other STDs in Santa Cruz

In addition to hepatitis, other STDs such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV, and syphilis are also prevalent in Santa Cruz. As with hepatitis, testing for these STDs is crucial for early detection and treatment. Same-day and next-day testing appointments for these STDs can also be booked through Solv’s website and mobile app.