Find Hepatitis test
in Shelby, NC.

Who should get tested for hepatitis?

Anyone who believes they may have been exposed to hepatitis should consider getting tested. This includes individuals who have shared needles, had unprotected sex, or have been in close contact with someone diagnosed with hepatitis. Additionally, those who have traveled to areas with high hepatitis prevalence or have a family history of the disease should also consider testing. According to the CDC, testing is particularly important for those born between 1945 and 1965, as this age group has a higher rate of hepatitis C infection.

Importance of getting tested

Getting tested for hepatitis is crucial because it allows for early detection, which can prevent the disease from progressing to more severe stages, including liver cirrhosis or liver cancer. Early detection also helps prevent the spread of the disease to others. According to the CDC, many people with hepatitis do not experience symptoms until the disease has progressed, making testing even more important.

Hepatitis testing options in Shelby, NC:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

There are several urgent care and walk-in clinics in Shelby, NC that offer hepatitis testing. One highly-rated option is NextCare Urgent Care, located at 419 Earl Rd, Shelby, NC 28150. This facility has a 4.67 rating and offers same-day and next-day testing appointments, which can be booked through Solv’s website and mobile app.

Primary care providers

Primary care providers in Shelby, NC also offer hepatitis testing. It's recommended to contact your primary care provider to discuss your risk factors and arrange for a test.

Free STD testing and community health centers

There are also community health centers in Shelby that offer free or low-cost hepatitis testing. These centers are a valuable resource for those without insurance or with limited financial means.

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.

Prevalence of hepatitis in Shelby

While specific data for Shelby, NC is not readily available, the CDC reports that North Carolina has a moderate prevalence of hepatitis compared to other states. It's important to note that hepatitis rates can vary within the state and are influenced by factors such as population density, access to healthcare, and local health initiatives.

Risk factors related to hepatitis in Shelby

Risk factors for hepatitis in Shelby are similar to those in other parts of the country. These include unprotected sex, sharing needles, close contact with a person who has hepatitis, and travel to high-risk areas. Additionally, socioeconomic factors such as access to healthcare and education about the disease can also influence risk.

Other STDs in Shelby

In addition to hepatitis, other STDs such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV, and syphilis are also present in Shelby, NC. The presence of these diseases underscores the importance of regular testing and safe practices to prevent transmission. As with hepatitis, testing for these STDs can be done at local urgent care centers, primary care providers, community health centers, or at home.