HIV and Hepititis Prevention

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a virus that weakens the immune system. Hepatitis C is a virus that damages the liver. Both of these diseases are spread by contact with the blood of an infected person. Both diseases can be treated, and hepatitis C can often be cured. Two other forms of viral hepatitis, hepatitis A and B, can be prevented by vaccination.

The HIV and Hepatitis Prevention Program offers educational presentations, outreach, and free confidential testing to at-risk individuals to help reduce the spread of HIV and viral hepatitis infections in Kittitas County.

Services Available

Educational Presentations

Interactive presentations about these bloodborne diseases are available to at-risk groups on request..

People who have risk factors for these diseases and barriers to testing in a full-service clinic can get free testing at KCPHD. Rapid hepatitis C testing is now available! Just a drop of blood from the finger can produce results in about 30 minutes. The HIV test requires getting a tube of blood from a vein. When a person tests positive for these infections, KCPHD staff help find an affordable, health care provider and other resources to successfully treat or manage these conditions.

Never Share Syringe Exchange

HIV and hepatitis C can be spread by sharing injection equipment. To reduce spread of these diseases, tThe Never Share syringe exchange is open every Thursday from 12:300p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the United Methodist Church at the corner of 3rd and Ruby in Ellensburg, 210 S. Ruby Streetand every Wednesday from 2:00 to 4:00 pm in Cle Elum, behind the Medic One Office at 505 Power Street. More information is available here:
Syringe exchange details

Resources & Links

• CDC Hepatitis Risk Assessment
• CDC HIV
• End AIDS Washington
• Washington State Department of Health HIV Client Services
• Washington Medicaid Hepatitis C Treatment Policy