Free hepatitis C screenings set

In honor of Public Health Month in April, the McHenry County Department of Health is offering free hepatitis C screenings to those age 18 and older.

The screenings will be available on Wednesday and Friday, as well as April 16 and April 18 at the Annex B facility, 2200 N. Seminary Ave., Woodstock.

Due to the limited number of screenings provided, appointments are necessary and must be scheduled by calling (815) 334-4500.

The screening will require two appointments, one for the lab work and the other to receive results.

Individuals with positive test results will receive referrals to health-care providers.

The free hepatitis C screenings are for high risk individuals. Risk factors include:

• Receiving blood from a donor who later tested positive for hepatitis C.

• Injecting illegal drugs (even if for a few times many years ago)

• Receiving a blood transfusion or solid organ transplant before July, 1992

• Receiving clotting factors made before 1987

• Having ever been on long-term kidney dialysis

• Have evidence of liver disease.

Hepatitis C is one of the most frequently reported diseases to MCDH's Communicable Disease Program, with more than 100 cases reported in 2007.

Many people are unaware they have the disease until donating blood or having a blood test. For information about the free hepatitis C screening, call MCDH at (815) 334-4500.