Hepatitis C (Hep C) is an infection of the liver from the Hepatitis C virus. Many people who are infected with Hep C do not experience any symptoms for long periods of time and are unaware of their infection. Over time, Hep C can cause serious health problems like liver disease or liver cancer.

Getting screened for Hep C with Bienestar has many benefits:

• Fast—Results in as little as 15-20 minutes with our rapid finger stick tests
• Confidential—We make sure your personal information is safe and protected
• Answers—Get all the answers you are looking for about Hep C, treatment, etc.
• Empowerment—Getting screened means you are taking action for your health & well-being
• Compassionate—If your test is positive, the Hep C counselor will link you to the help you need and provide a non-judgmental space to address your concerns and questions.

Who should get tested?

Hep C is spread through contact with the blood of a person infected with the Hepatitis C virus. Today, most people become infected through sharing needles, syringes, or other equipment often used for injecting drugs. While rare, sexual transmission of Hep C is also possible.

Testing for Hep C is highly recommended for certain individuals, including people who:

• Have ever injected any drug, even just once
• Have chronic liver disease, HIV or AIDS
• Were born between 1945-1965
• Received donated blood or organs before 1992

If you have been in any risky situations involving blood-to-blood contact with someone that has Hep C or whose Hep C status you are unsure of, it is highly recommended to get tested. When you get tested, our Hep C counselors can also help with any questions or concerns you may have.

For more information about Hepatitis C testing, please contact:

Mayra Hernandez (she/ella)
Clinic Manager
mhernandez@bienestar.org
(866) 590-6411 ext. 118