Cross-posted from the HHS.gov Hepatitis blog

Did you know there are 5 different types of viral hepatitis? These viruses cause more than one million deaths each year, and that number keeps growing.

Fortunately, Medicare can help keep you protected from hepatitis B and hepatitis C, the most common types of viral hepatitis in the United States.

Hepatitis is contagious. The hepatitis B and C viruses spread through contact with blood or other body fluids of an infected person. These viruses can cause either a mild illness, lasting a few weeks (acute) or a serious long-term illness (chronic) that can lead to liver disease or liver cancer.

Part B covers hepatitis B shots, which usually are given as a series of 3 shots over a 6-month period. You need all 3 shots for complete protection.

Medicare also covers a one-time hepatitis C screening test if your primary care doctor or practitioner orders it and you meet one of these conditions:

  • You’re at high risk because you use or have used illicit injection drugs
  • You had a blood transfusion before 1992
  • You were born between 1945 and 1965

If you’re at high risk, Medicare covers yearly screenings.

Watch this video Medicare & You: Hepatitis exit disclaimer icon from Medicare.gov and share with your family and friends.

Related pages and posts:

Medicare can help keep you protected from viral #hepatitis! Learn more https://go.usa.gov/xVxec @cdchep @cmsgov

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