Hepatitis C
Hepatitis C Labrador Project
(larger version)
(larger version)
Hepatitis C is the most common blood born disease in Canada effecting approximately 250 000 Canadians, with an estimated 4000 new diagnoses a year.
The Aboriginal population is suffering, with rates of Hepatitis C being about 9 times higher than non-Aboriginal populations.
The disease is caused by the Hepatitis C virus, which is transmitted through blood and bodily fluids. There are no vaccinations.
If you are thinking about getting a tattoo or piercing be sure to go to a professional that can offer sanitized equipment in a clean environment. Do not share personal hygiene items such as toothbrushes, nail clippers, tweezers, razors, etc. Do not share needles or other drug paraphernalia.
Once the Hepatitis C virus has entered your body, it attacks your liver cells inflaming your liver. This can lead to cirrhosis or liver cancer.
How do an individual know if they have the Hepatitis C virus?
Most individuals who have Hepatitis C do not know they are infected because the symptoms are often unnoticeable.
Symptoms to look for are:
For further information, please contact:
Hepatitis C Program Developer
Hepatitis C Labrador Project
Phone: (709) 896-8302/896-5144 or 1-800-806-9980
Sponsored by the Labrador Friendship Centre
Funded by Public Health Agency of Canada
The Aboriginal population is suffering, with rates of Hepatitis C being about 9 times higher than non-Aboriginal populations.
The disease is caused by the Hepatitis C virus, which is transmitted through blood and bodily fluids. There are no vaccinations.
If you are thinking about getting a tattoo or piercing be sure to go to a professional that can offer sanitized equipment in a clean environment. Do not share personal hygiene items such as toothbrushes, nail clippers, tweezers, razors, etc. Do not share needles or other drug paraphernalia.
Once the Hepatitis C virus has entered your body, it attacks your liver cells inflaming your liver. This can lead to cirrhosis or liver cancer.
How do an individual know if they have the Hepatitis C virus?
Most individuals who have Hepatitis C do not know they are infected because the symptoms are often unnoticeable.
Symptoms to look for are:
- Jaundice (the whites of the eyes and skin are yellowish)
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and loss of appetite
- Muscle aches and pains
- Fatigue
- Dark coloured urine
- Grey or clayish coloured stools
For further information, please contact:
Hepatitis C Program Developer
Hepatitis C Labrador Project
Phone: (709) 896-8302/896-5144 or 1-800-806-9980
Sponsored by the Labrador Friendship Centre
Funded by Public Health Agency of Canada