What You Need to Know about Hepatitis C

Did you know that in the United States, almost 3 million people have hepatitis C?

If you are one of them, you probably have many questions. This booklet can help you learn about symptoms, treatment, substance use, staying healthy, and more.

Table of Contents

Telephone Hotlines:

For more information about hepatitis C, call toll-free: 1-888-4-HEP-CDC CDC Hepatitis Hotline (1-888-443-7232)

For help quitting or reducing your alcohol and drug use, call: 1-800-522-5353 New York State Office of Alcohol & Substance Abuse Services (OASAS) Monday - Friday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
or
1-800-LIFENET New York City only (1-800-543-3638) 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 1-800-LIFENET also offers confidential help with depression and other mental health problems.

To find syringe exchange programs, pharmacies that sell syringes without a prescription, HIV test sites, and information about HIV and AIDS, call the toll-free New York State Department of Health HIV/AIDS Hotline: 1-800-541-AIDS English 1-800-233-SIDA Spanish 1-800-369-AIDS Deaf/TDD You can listen to taped messages or speak to a phone counselor. You can ask them anything, and you do not need to give your name.

Internet Resources:

There are many health resources on the Internet. If you do not have access to a computer, try your local library. Most libraries have internet access that you can use free of charge, and they can show you what to do if you need help. Librarians are not required to keep information private, but you don't need to tell them what information you are looking for or which websites you plan to view. Try these websites:

State of New York Department of Health 1801 11/04