Hepatitis B and hepatitis C information for health professionals and patients in South Western Sydney.
Hepatitis B & C information for South Western Sydney
South Western Sydney PHN (SWSPHN) supports primary health care providers in managing hepatitis C through regular education and training.
Providers can find education, training and support in treating hepatitis B and C here.
We also provide resources for health professionals and patients who are looking for up-to-date information about these diseases specific to South Western Sydney.
- Health Resource Directory (for community members)
- HealthPathways (for health professionals)
What is hepatitis?
Hepatitis is a disease caused by a virus. It can result in the inflammation of the liver and people may be asymptomatic (have no symptoms) until liver damage has occurred. The most common types of hepatitis are hepatitis B and hepatitis C.
Hepatitis B (known as hep B)
Hepatitis B is an infection of the liver, it is caused by a virus. People can get it through sexual contact with someone who has the disease, though blood to blood contact, or during pregnancy. The best protection from hepatitis B is vaccination.
Hepatitis C
Hepatitis C (known as hep C) is also an infection of the liver caused by a virus. Like hepatitis B, people can get it through sexual contact, thought blood to blood contact, or during pregnancy. There is no vaccination to prevent hepatitis C but a cure is available for up to 95% of people and the treatment course only takes 12 weeks. Prevention involves avoiding exposure to blood that may contain hepatitis C.
If you think there is a chance you may have contracted hepatitis B or C, talk to your regular GP about testing options.