In honor of World Hepatitis Day (WHD) 2008 being observed on May 19,
the Michigan Department of Community Health (MDCH), along with the
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the National Viral
Hepatitis Roundtable Coalition, is encouraging families to protect
themselves from hepatitis virus disease.
"We want people to take proper precaution to protect themselves from
hepatitis," said MDCH Director Janet Olszewski. “While we are using
this day to raise awareness about hepatitis, we hope our message serves
as a constant reminder for people to protect themselves everyday.”
This day is aimed at raising awareness of hepatitis, which is caused by
a virus that attacks the liver. Some people infected with viral
hepatitis may become extremely ill, have liver damage, cancer, or even
die from the disease. Hepatitis A disease is spread by contaminated
food and water. Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C diseases are spread through
unprotected sex, blood-to-blood contact with someone who has the virus,
or at birth.
Each year, hundreds of people in Michigan become ill from viral
hepatitis infections that could have been prevented by getting
immunizations or through other prevention methods. The “Am I Number
12?” campaign focuses on the fact that worldwide, one in every 12
people is living with hepatitis disease. Prevention, vaccination and
testing are the best ways to protect your family against hepatitis
disease.
Hepatitis vaccines are safe and effective. These vaccines are
thoroughly tested before being approved for public use and monitored
carefully by doctors, researchers, and public health officials. Make
sure your family is protected from viral hepatitis disease. For more
information call 1-800-CDC-INFO or visit www.cdc.gov/hepatitis. |
