This past weekend much of the world observed World Hepatitis Day. On this day many took some time to reflect upon the progress that has been made in the treatment of the disease.  The once incurable disease affects the liver causing inflammation. This inflammation may lead to either cirrhosis of the liver or cancer. Those who contract the disease may suffer pain as well as shame regarding the blood borne disease. Though it can result in death, in recent years, antiviral drugs have been developed to treat the condition. In other situations, liver transplants are helpful.

Regular readers of this blog are likely aware of how hepatitis C can be transmitted through sharing needles as authorities in Pennsylvania, and other states, allege happened at various hospitals. There are other ways in which it can be transmitted as well, such as:

• Medical procedures that entail breaking the skin
• Acupuncture
• Dental care
• Tattooing
• Kidney dialysis

As this list indicates, in many of the situations in which the disease is transmitted, the individual who gets it often has no reason to suspect that they are at risk. It is assumed when someone seeks any of the procedures listed above that precautions such as sterilizing equipment will be undertaken to make sure nothing is spread. Because there are situations where this is not the case, it is important that those affected are aware of their legal rights.

Under certain circumstances it may be possible for an infected individual to seek financial compensation for their illness. This is true whether the transmission occurs in a medical setting or elsewhere. These types of cases are often complex which makes it necessary for most to work with a lawyer who handles these types of cases.

Source: The Jerusalem Post, “Many infected with the hepatitis C virus can now be cured,” Judy Siegel-Itzkovich, July 28, 2013