Oklahoma battles hepatitis surge with free testing and modern treatments

May marks Hepatitis Awareness Month, drawing attention to viral infections that harm the liver. The organ plays a vital role in filtering blood, processing nutrients, and fighting infections. In Oklahoma, hepatitis A, B, and C remain widespread, with prevention and testing services available locally.

Hepatitis A spreads through the fecal-oral route, often via contaminated food or close contact with an infected person. Hepatitis B transmits mainly at birth, through sexual contact, or by sharing needles. Hepatitis C, meanwhile, spreads almost exclusively through shared syringes or contaminated medical equipment.

Vaccines exist for hepatitis A and B, making them largely preventable. Hepatitis C has no vaccine but boasts a high cure rate with modern treatments. Since 1992, blood screening for hepatitis C in the U.S. has nearly eliminated transfusion-related cases. However, new infections among injection drug users persisted as a major concern through the 2010s and 2020s.

Prevention methods include using protection during sex, avoiding needle-sharing, and steering clear of close contact with infected individuals. In Tulsa, HOPE Testing provides free hepatitis C screenings, while Tulsa CARES offers affordable treatment options. The Tulsa Health Department also maintains a Hepatitis Resources page for public guidance.

Liver damage can stem from substance use, certain medications, or underlying health conditions. Chronic inflammation often follows untreated infections, leading to long-term health risks.

Free testing and low-cost treatments are available in Tulsa to combat hepatitis infections. Public health efforts continue to focus on education, prevention, and early intervention. These measures aim to reduce transmission rates and improve liver health across the community.