Veterans can get tested for Hepatitis C for free in Salem.

The Salem VA Medical Center will offer the screening for enrolled veterans Tuesday through Thursday, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the main Lobby, building 143.

May is Hepatitis Awareness Month and Thursday is National Hepatitis Testing Day. Veterans have unusually high rates of Hepatitis C, especially those born between 1945 and 1965.

Hepatitis C is a disease of the liver caused by a virus; it is generally spread through blood-to-blood contact.

Hepatitis C can persist for 10 to 30 years before there are any clear symptoms, which is why most people with chronic Hepatitis C are unaware they are infected.

There is no vaccine, but veterans with any of the following risks should be tested:

- Anyone born during 1945-1965

- Anyone with liver disease or who has had abnormal liver tests

- Anyone who has ever injected illegal drugs

- Anyone who had a blood transfusion or organ transplant before 1992

- Anyone who received a tattoo or body piercing in a non-regulated setting

- Anyone with HIV or weakened immune system