Most of us probably don't give a lot of thought to hepatitis, except perhaps when we receive a vaccine against hepatitis A or B.

Both hepatitis A and B are serious illnesses, but hepatitis C is the most serious of the three, the Simcoe-Muskoka District Health Unit says.

Hepatitis C is spread through contact with the blood of an infected person, the health unit says, and those at highest risk are those who have shared used needles, syringes or other drug-related equipment.

People who become infected have a high risk of developing chronic hepatitis C, which can lead to serious liver damage.

Most people do not experience any symptoms of hepatitis C when they first become infected and can carry the virus for decades without knowing it, the health unit says.

During this time, they can spread the disease to others. It's estimated that more than 110,000 people in Ontario have the hepatitis C virus and that about 35,000 people don't know that they have it.

There is no vaccine to prevent hepatitis C. The best way to prevent infection is to avoid higher risk blood-to-blood exposure by not sharing needles, syringes, razors and toothbrushes, the health unit says.

Less common ways in which hepatitis can be transmitted include receiving a tattoo or piercing with non-sterile equipment, via birth to an infected mother or through unprotected sexual contact.

The virus is not spread by casual contact, such as hugging, kissing or shaking hands, or by being around someone who is sneezing or coughing. Hepatitis C is not found in food or water.

Testing for hepatitis C is recommended for anyone who has engaged in higher risk blood-to-blood exposures. A blood test ordered by your health practitioner can tell you if you have the virus. While there is no cure for chronic hepatitis C, there are treatment options available.

 Ask yourself if your past actions have put you at risk and get tested. For more information about hepatitis C call Your Health Connection 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays at 721-7520 or 1-877-721-7520 or check the website, a link to which is provided.