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Fact Sheet Series
Viral Hepatitis and Injection Drug Users
In the United States, viral hepatitis is an important public
health problem because it causes serious illness, it affects millions, and it
has a close connection with HIV. This series of fact sheets addresses viral
hepatitis, particularly hepatitis B and C – two important blood-borne
infections that have a major impact on injection drug users (IDUs).
Viral Hepatitis
and Injection Drug Users
Millions of Americans have viral hepatitis. It is a particularly significant
problem among injection drug users (IDUs). Growing awareness of this problem
is leading to new initiatives, but efforts to prevent these diseases and reduce
their medical, financial, and social costs face challenges. (PDF
63 KB, 6 pages)
Medical Management
of Chronic Hepatitis B and Chronic Hepatitis C
Many individuals who become infected with hepatitis B virus (HBV) or hepatitis
C virus (HCV) develop chronic liver disease that can gradually lead to serious
liver damage. Medical management involves periodic monitoring, abstinence from
alcoholic beverages, and for some patients, antiviral therapy. (PDF
46 KB, 4 pages)
Vaccines to Prevent Hepatitis
A and Hepatitis B
Hepatitis A and B can be prevented through immunization. Awareness of the importance
of immunizing against these diseases is growing, and new initiatives are capitalizing
on this interest. No vaccine to prevent hepatitis C is available. (PDF
47 KB, 4 pages)
Hepatitis C Virus
and HIV Coinfection
Coinfection with HIV and hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a significant problem, especially
among injection drug users (IDUs). Care for individuals living with both diseases
is complex. Coinfected IDUs can be treated successfully, although the caregiving
team should have expertise in liver disease, HIV, and addiction. (PDF
45 KB, 4 pages)
Viral Hepatitis
and the Criminal Justice System
The unique circumstances of the criminal justice environment create
opportunities to reach an underserved population with viral hepatitis
prevention and treatment services. However, correctional facilities
must grapple with several issues, including uncertainty about who will
pay for these services, a lack of screening and treatment guidelines,
and a need for staff training. (PDF
43 KB, 4 pages)
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