Summer is a time for enjoying outdoor activities like swimming, camping, barbecuing, and traveling. However, it’s also a season when the risk of hepatitis transmission can increase due to several factors.

Hepatitis is an infection that affects the liver and can be caused by contaminated food and water, unprotected sexual contact, sharing needles, and other risky behaviors. Fortunately, there are ways to prevent hepatitis and have a safe and healthy summer. Here are 10 tips to follow:.

1. Get Vaccinated

The best way to protect yourself from hepatitis A and B is to get vaccinated before traveling or engaging in activities that could expose you to the viruses.

Hepatitis A is usually spread through contaminated food or water, while hepatitis B is often transmitted through blood and body fluids. Both types of hepatitis can cause symptoms like fatigue, nausea, yellowing of the skin and eyes, and abdominal pain. Vaccination can also prevent more serious complications like liver failure and cancer.

2. Wash Your Hands

Hand hygiene is essential for preventing the spread of hepatitis and other infections. Always wash your hands with soap and water after using the bathroom, changing diapers, handling pets, and before eating or preparing food.

If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.

3. Use Protection

Sexual contact is one of the main ways that hepatitis B and C are transmitted. To reduce your risk of infection, always use a latex or polyurethane condom during vaginal, anal, and oral sex.

Avoid sharing sex toys or other personal items that may be contaminated with blood.

4. Be Careful with Food and Water

When traveling or eating out, be aware of the risks associated with contaminated food and water.

Hepatitis A and E can be spread through fecal-oral transmission, meaning that the virus can be present in food or water that has been contaminated with fecal matter. To reduce your risk, drink bottled or boiled water, avoid raw or undercooked shellfish, meat, and eggs, and wash fruits and vegetables with clean water.

If you use drugs, it’s important to avoid sharing needles or other injection equipment that may be contaminated with blood.

Hepatitis C is often spread through injection drug use, and there is currently no vaccine available for this type of hepatitis. If you need help quitting drugs, reach out to a drug rehab center or support group in your area.

6. Get Tested

If you suspect that you may have been exposed to hepatitis, or if you are at risk due to your occupation or lifestyle, talk to your healthcare provider about getting tested.

Early detection and treatment can help prevent liver damage and other complications. Testing may involve a blood test or a liver function test.

7. Avoid Alcohol

Alcohol can be toxic to the liver and can worsen liver damage caused by hepatitis. To protect your liver, it’s best to avoid alcohol or limit your intake to moderate levels.

If you have been diagnosed with hepatitis, your healthcare provider may recommend that you abstain from alcohol altogether.

8. Stay Hydrated

Dehydration can put stress on the liver and affect its ability to function properly. To stay hydrated during hot weather or physical activity, drink plenty of water, unsweetened fruit juice, or herbal tea.

Avoid sugary drinks and caffeinated beverages, as they can be dehydrating.

9. Practice Safe Tattooing and Piercing

If you choose to get a tattoo or piercing, make sure to go to a reputable and licensed artist who follows proper hygiene and sterilization procedures.

Hepatitis B, C, and HIV can be transmitted through unsterilized needles and contaminated ink or jewelry. If you notice any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, and discharge, seek medical attention right away.

10. Protect Your Skin

Exposure to sunlight can increase your risk of skin cancer, which can be more dangerous for people with weakened immune systems, such as those with hepatitis.

To protect your skin, wear protective clothing, including a hat and sunglasses, and apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to all exposed skin. Seek shade or stay indoors during the hottest hours of the day.