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