- In observance of National Hepatitis Awareness Month, the Florida Department of Health in Okeechobee County (DOH-Okeechobee) is providing free hepatitis testing during the month of May. The intent of the annual observance is to raise awareness about the global impact of viral hepatitis and the importance of preventing hepatitis-related liver disease, including liver cancer.

The Hepatitis Prevention Program in Okeechobee County will provide free hepatitis testing Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to. 12 p.m. and 2pm to 4p.m. at 1728 NW 9th Ave. across from Indian River State College. Hepatitis B and A vaccines are available if you meet the criteria through the Hepatitis Prevention Program.

Hepatitis is characterized by inflammation of the liver. Hepatitis A, B, and C are the most common types of viral hepatitis in the United States. Symptoms of hepatitis, if they are present, include nausea, fever, weakness, loss of appetite and jaundice. Hepatitis A is transmitted by eating food or drinking water that has been contaminated with human waste (feces). Hepatitis B is spread through contact with the blood or body fluids of an infected person. Hepatitis C is usually spread through contact with blood containing the virus. There is no vaccine for Hepatitis C (HCV).

For more information on Hepatitis testing and vaccination or the Hepatitis Prevention Program please contact Marcia Woodham, RN at 863-462-5767. Marcia.Woodham@flhealth.gov.

About the Florida Department of Health

The department works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts.

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