Experts Urge Indiana Residents To Get Tested For Hepatitis

Associated Press

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — State health experts are urging Indiana residents to get tested for hepatitis as the state marks Hepatitis Awareness Month during May.

The State Department of Health says reported acute hepatitis C cases have risen by 400 percent since 2010.

But federal officials say nearly three-fourths of those who have the disease don't know it and aren't receiving treatment. Indiana data show that more than 7,000 cases of viral hepatitis were reported in the state during 2015.

There are three different kinds of hepatitis. Hepatitis A is acute and resolves on its own. Hepatitis B and C can last for decades.

All can have mild symptoms or none at all.

State Health Commissioner Jerome Adams says hepatitis can be prevented by vaccination or avoiding sharing items like syringes, razors and toothbrushes.

Support independent journalism today. You rely on WFYI to stay informed, and we depend on you to make our work possible. Donate to power our nonprofit reporting today. Give now.

Possible measles exposure at Indy Children’s Museum on day of solar eclipse, health department warns

Solar eclipse gazers at the Indianapolis Children’s Museum may have been exposed to measles from an out-of-state visitor on April 8, according to the Marion County Public Health Department.

Health / April 1, 2024

The Checkup: Are my eclipse glasses legit? How do I protect my eyes?

Why do I need special solar eclipse viewers? How do I check if my eclipse glasses are not fake and are safe to use? Can I look through my phone? We answer these questions and more ahead of the April 8 solar eclipse.