Viral Hepatitis/Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C

During the COVID-19 situation we are adopting social distancing measures to keep our patients and staff safe. To support this, we are introducing alternatives to face to face consultations. These consultations are bound by our standard privacy requirements and will provide the same quality care for you, but will be facilitated over the phone or via video. Face to face consultations are still available when needed. Please call the clinic on the numbers below for more information and help.

Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C are two of the viruses that can cause inflammation of the liver. Both Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C are spread through contact with infected blood. Activities such as sharing injecting equipment, unsterile tattooing and body piercing or unsterile medical procedures may put you at risk of contracting Hepatitis C or Hepatitis B. Hepatitis B is also present in body fluids and can be transmitted via sexual contact.

Vaccination against Hepatitis B is available.

There is no vaccination to prevent Hepatitis C, however there are ways to prevent exposure as well as to prevent the spread of hepatitis to others. An estimated 280,000 people in Australia have contracted Hepatitis C.

If you are living with Hepatitis B or C, it is important to know that there are effective treatments available for most types of these viruses. In addition to this, there are a range of lifestyle choices that will help you cope better with hepatitis.

The HARP unit provides a range of fixed and outreach viral hepatitis services to the community. Services provided include:

Information and education about Hepatitis A, B and C prevention, management and treatment
Testing and treatment for Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C
Monthly support groups in some locations
Hepatitis B and A vaccination for defined target groups

All services are confidential. Medicare card may be required for specialist services.

Hepatitis testing is also available from sexual health services, Aboriginal Medical Service or GPs.