Queer Health: Viral Hepatitis - What You Need to Know - MambaOnline - LGBTQ South Africa online
July marks Hepatitis Awareness Month, culminating in World Hepatitis Day on July 28th. While anyone can get viral hepatitis, some forms – such as hepatitis A and B – can disproportionately affect gay, bi and. . .
July marks Hepatitis Awareness Month, culminating in World Hepatitis Day on July 28th. While anyone can get viral hepatitis, some forms – such as hepatitis A and B – can disproportionately affect gay, bi and other men who have sex with men (MSM) at higher rates because of how these viruses can be transmitted through sexual contact and exposure to body excretions. Additionally, South Africa has recently entered the top ten countries with the highest burden of new hepatitis C infections. The good news is that hepatitis A and B are preventable through vaccination, and all types can be managed with appropriate medical care. What is viral hepatitis?The liver plays a vital role in filtering the blood, processing nutrients, supporting digestion, and removing harmful substances from the body. Viral hepatitis occurs when a virus infects the liver, causing inflammation. The main types are:Hepatitis A:Hepatitis A usually causes a short-term infection. It does not typically become chronic, but it can make someone very unwell for weeks. Hepatitis B:Hepatitis B can become a long-term (chronic) infection and may lead to serious liver problems, including liver failure or cancer if untreated. Hepatitis C:Hepatitis C can also become chronic and may cause long-term liver damage; however, modern treatments can usually cure hepatitis C. Why are MSM affected by viral hepatitis?MSM are not at risk because of sexual orientation or identity. The risk is linked to certain ways these viruses can spread. Hepatitis A transmissionHepatitis A can spread through contact with tiny amounts of infected faecal matter. During sexual activity, this can happen through oral-anal contact, like rimming, or contact involving the anus. Outbreaks of hepatitis A among MSM communities have occurred in many countries. Hepatitis B transmissionHepatitis B is highly infectious and can spread through:Semen and other sexual fluidsContact with infected bloodUnprotected sexual contactSharing needles or drug-use paraphernaliaUnsterile medical practices including medical procedures, tattoos, or blood transfusionsHepatitis C transmissionHepatitis C spreads mainly through blood-to-blood contact. Among MSM, transmission risk can increase through:Sexual activities that involve blood exposureSharing drug-injecting equipmentSharing equipment used for certain sexual practicesHaving HIV can increase one’s vulnerability and disease progressionWhat are the symptoms of viral hepatitis?Many people with hepatitis have no symptoms, especially in the early stages. This means someone can have hepatitis and unknowingly pass it on. When symptoms do occur, they may include:Extreme tirednessLoss of appetiteNausea or vomitingStomach painFeverJoint painDark urinePale stoolsYellowing of the eyes or skin (jaundice)Symptoms can range from mild to severe and may last weeks or longer. Because symptoms are not always obvious, testing is important, especially if you may have been exposed. How can MSM prevent viral hepatitis?1. Get vaccinatedVaccination is the best protection against:Hepatitis A:A safe and effective vaccine is availableHepatitis B:The hepatitis B vaccine provides strong protection and is recommended for people who may have increased exposure risk. 2. Use safer sex practicesWays to reduce risk include:Using condoms and barriers where appropriateUsing lubricant to reduce skin damage during sexAvoiding sharing sex toys unless they are cleaned properly or covered with a new condom between usersAvoiding contact with bloodGetting tested regularly if you have ongoing risk3. Get regular sexual health screeningsAsk your healthcare provider about hepatitis testing, especially if you:Have multiple sexual partnersAre living with HIVHave had a sexually transmitted infection (STI)Have had condomless sexUse drugs that involve needlesCan viral hepatitis be treated?Hepatitis A:There is no specific antiviral treatment, but most people recover fully with medical support and rest. Hepatitis B:There is no universal cure, but antiviral medicines can control the virus, reduce liver damage, and lower the risk of complications. Some people clear the infection naturally. Hepatitis C:Hepatitis C is usually curable with modern direct-acting antiviral medicines, often taken for a short course of treatment. Reinfection is possible. Living well with hepatitisA hepatitis diagnosis does not mean your sex life or relationships have to stop. With vaccination, testing, treatment and support, people living with hepatitis can maintain healthy lives. A balanced diet, exercise and reduced alcohol intake will aid the recovery of the liver. If you think you may have been exposed, do not panic — speak to a healthcare provider about testing and the next steps. Knowing your status protects your health and helps protect your partners. Get vaccinated. Get tested. Get treated. Article courtey of +DR – OUT LGBT Well-being’s stigma-free, patient-centred LGBT+ medical practice in Pretoria – which is offering a FREE hepatitis B vaccine and hepatitis C antibody test for the month of July! For more information about +DR or to make an appointment, WhatsApp+27 72 113 6597or visithttps://out. org. za/plusdoctor/.