HEP 2 B QUEER?
Men who have sex with men are at a higher risk of being infected by Viral Hepatitis. Here are some fast facts to help you steer clear of this virus:
- Hepatitis is a general term for inflammation of the liver and Hepatitis A, B, and C are viral and can be transmitted sexually
- Viral Hepatitis can be transmitted via blood and semen and by having unprotected oral or anal sex. You can get Hepatitis A by rimming someone who has it as it can be transmitted by ingesting minute traces of faeces
- Many people who are infected with Hepatitis do not show or suffer from any symptoms at all, and may not even know that they have it. A few people will display symptoms and can even suffer severe liver damage from the virus. HIV-positive people are particularly vulnerable to Hepatitis
- Symptoms for Hepatitis, when they do show, include jaundice, which is a yellowing of the skin or eyes); fever, dark urine, grey coloured faeces, and abdominal pain. These symptoms indicate that your liver is in trouble
- The best defence against Hepatitis is to reduce the number of sexual partners you have and always to use condoms and water-based lubewhen you have sex. Never share a needle with someone else if you inject drugs, and get tested the moment you suspect that you may have any of the symptoms
