Hepatitis C is a liver disease spread through infected blood contact. Most people have no symptoms and are unaware of their hepatitis infection. This is why routine screening for Hepatitis C is recommended for those between the ages of 18-79, and regular testing every 6 months for those with continued risk of acquiring Hep C.  Those who do develop symptoms may have fatigue, nausea, pain on the right side of the abdomen, loss of appetite, and yellowing of the eyes and skin. Hepatitis C can be a long-term chronic disease and likely leads to liver failure. Currently, hepatitis C is the most common bloodborne pathogen in the U.S. and the leading cause of liver cancer.

There is no vaccine for Hepatitis C; however there is TREATMENT to CURE the virus.

The Yadkin County Human Services Agency Hepatitis C Bridge Counselor serves North Carolina’s Region 3, which includes: Davie, Stokes, Forsyth, Davidson, Wilkes, Ashe, Alleghany, Watauga, Surry and Yadkin. The bridge program works to link patients to testing and treatment for Hepatitis C.  The bridge counselor provides education and support as the patient goes through the treatment process. Providing education helps slow the spread of the Hepatitis C virus throughout out the community, and support is a vital component of successfully engaging people in care as the bridge counselor offers guidance to those who may have difficulty accessing medical treatment and social services.

The Regional Bridge Counselor has completed all required trainings set by NCDHHS and is making connections with each local health department and attending outreach events in various counties among the catchment area. She has also made connections with the Opioid Coordinator in Yadkin County. On a daily basis, she works to make contact with those showing as active in NCEDSS to link them to resources and care.