Find Hepatitis test
in Kankakee, IL.

Who should get tested for hepatitis?

Hepatitis is an inflammatory condition of the liver, often caused by a viral infection. According to the CDC, certain groups are at a higher risk and should consider getting tested for hepatitis. These include people who have been exposed to blood or body fluids of an infected person, people who have had unprotected sex with an infected person, people who have shared needles, syringes, or other drug-injection equipment, and people with HIV. Additionally, anyone born between 1945 and 1965, often referred to as baby boomers, should also get tested as they are five times more likely to have hepatitis C.

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 even liver cancer. Early detection allows for prompt treatment, which can prevent these complications and improve the quality of life for those infected. Furthermore, knowing your status can help prevent the spread of the virus to others.

Hepatitis testing options in Kankakee, IL:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

Urgent care centers such as Midwest Express Clinic in Richton Park and Local MD Urgent Care in Homewood offer hepatitis testing. These facilities are highly rated for their short wait times and friendly staff. They are also conveniently located for residents of Kankakee and surrounding areas, and you can book same-day and next-day testing appointments through Solv’s website and mobile app.

Primary care providers

Primary care providers are another good option for hepatitis testing. They can provide ongoing care and treatment if you test positive, and they can also provide vaccinations against hepatitis A and B.

Free STD testing and community health centers

There are several community health centers in Kankakee that offer free or low-cost hepatitis testing. These centers provide confidential testing and counseling services.

At-home testing

At-home testing kits are another option for those who prefer privacy. These kits can be ordered online and delivered to your home, where you can take the test and send it back to a lab for analysis.

Prevalence of hepatitis in Kankakee

According to the CDC, the prevalence of hepatitis in Kankakee is consistent with national averages. However, it is important to note that many cases of hepatitis go undiagnosed, so the actual number of people living with the virus may be higher.

Risk factors related to hepatitis in Kankakee

Risk factors for hepatitis in Kankakee are similar to those in other parts of the country. These include unprotected sex, sharing needles or other drug paraphernalia, and having a blood transfusion or organ transplant before 1992. Additionally, certain populations, such as baby boomers and people with HIV, are at a higher risk.

Other STDs in Kankakee

In addition to hepatitis, other STDs such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV, and syphilis are also prevalent in Kankakee. The rates of these STDs are comparable to those in nearby counties like Fulton County and Williams County. As with hepatitis, testing is crucial for early detection and treatment of these infections.