XALAPA, Ver., July 28, 2023. – In the framework of the commemoration of World Hepatitis Day, the Mexican Institute of Social Security (IMSS) in the state of Norte Veracruz urges the population to strengthen preventive measures against hepatitis C in order to reduce transmission and health complications of this disease.
“Hepatitis C is a variant of the hepatitis virus that is transmitted through blood, that is, when the blood of a person with the disease comes into contact with that of a healthy person,” said Regional Gastroenterologist Rafael Aguirre. Cardoza (Rafael Aguirre Cardoza) explained. Hospital (HGZ) 11.
The virus can be contracted by sharing personal hygiene items such as toothbrushes or razors, and by using infected needles for injections, tattooing, acupuncture or piercings.
Symptoms of the disease include muscle or joint pain, loss of appetite, weight loss, nausea, tiredness or weakness, and serious liver complications such as cirrhosis, according to Aguirre Cardoza. This was many years after the initial contagion occurred.
Some people with hepatitis C don’t have any symptoms, so experts point to the importance of getting blood tests at least once a year to catch the disease and prevent health complications.
Finally, gastroenterologists recommend protecting the liver by avoiding excessive alcohol consumption, self-medicating, eating a healthy diet, and getting a hepatitis vaccine.