HEP A, B & C

Let’s clear up what viral hepatitis (Hep) is, how it spreads, and how you can protect yourself. Viral hepatitis is a liver infection. Sometimes you can have Hep and not feel sick. There are five kinds of Hep, but we’ll look at the three main types: A, B, and C. For more info, visit catie.ca.

Hep A and B

• How Hep A spreads: When poop (shit, stool) from someone with Hep A gets into another person’s mouth. This can happen during sex or by eating food or drinking water infected with the virus. For more information, visit https://www.catie.ca/hepatitis-a.
  
• How Hep B spreads: Through contact with semen (cum), front-hole fluid, vaginal fluid, or blood. For more information, visit https://www.catie.ca/hepatitis-b.
  

Protect yourself: You can get vaccines that guard against Hep A and Hep B. In some provinces these shots are free for people like men who have sex with men. Check if you’re eligible.

Hep C

• How Hep C spreads: When blood from someone with Hep C enters another person’s bloodstream. This can happen by:
  
  • Sharing items with wet or dry blood on them (toothbrushes, nail clippers, razors, needles for hormones, tattoos, or piercings)
    
  • Having sex without a barrier if there is blood
    

There is no vaccine for Hep C. The good news is you can take medicine that treats and cures it. Talk to your healthcare provider about Hep C treatments. Remember, even after you’re cured, you can get Hep C again. A cure does not give you lifetime protection. For more information, visit https://www.catie.ca/essentials/hepatitis-c-basics.