In honor of World Hepatitis Day (WHD) 2008 being observed on May 19, the Michigan Department of Community Health (MDCH), along with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the National Viral Hepatitis Roundtable Coalition, is encouraging families to protect themselves from hepatitis virus disease.

"We want people to take proper precaution to protect themselves from hepatitis," said MDCH Director Janet Olszewski. "While we are using this day to raise awareness about hepatitis, we hope our message serves as a constant reminder for people to protect themselves everyday."

This day is aimed at raising awareness of hepatitis, which is caused by a virus that attacks the liver. Some people infected with viral hepatitis may become extremely ill, have liver damage, cancer, or even die from the disease. Hepatitis A disease is spread by contaminated food and water. Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C diseases are spread through unprotected sex, blood-to-blood contact with someone who has the virus, or at birth.

Each year, hundreds of people in Michigan become ill from viral hepatitis infections that could have been prevented by getting immunizations or through other prevention methods. The "Am I Number 12?" campaign focuses on the fact that worldwide, one in every 12 people is living with hepatitis disease. Prevention, vaccination and testing are the best ways to protect your family against hepatitis disease.

Hepatitis vaccines are safe and effective. These vaccines are thoroughly tested before being approved for public use and monitored carefully by doctors, researchers, and public health officials. Make sure your family is protected from viral hepatitis disease. For more information call 1-800-CDC-INFO or visit www.cdc.gov/hepatitis.