Hepatitis Testing Day

Hepatitis Testing Day is observed every year on May 19. In 2026, this date falls on a Tuesday. This health awareness observance focuses on viral hepatitis testing, especially for hepatitis B and hepatitis C. It is a practical reminder that many people with chronic viral hepatitis do not feel sick for years, even while liver damage may be developing. The day encourages people to learn their status, talk with a health care provider, and connect with care when testing shows an infection. ^{1 2}

History of Hepatitis Testing Day

Hepatitis Testing Day grew out of national public health efforts in the United States to address viral hepatitis as a serious but often hidden health problem. It was first observed in 2012, after federal planning called for a national testing day connected with Hepatitis Awareness Month in May. In 2013, it was designated as a national observance to raise awareness of viral hepatitis and the value of screening. The focus has remained steady: helping more people learn whether they have hepatitis B or hepatitis C and linking those who test positive to medical care.

The observance is part of a broader public health message about hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C. Hepatitis A and hepatitis B can be prevented with vaccines, while hepatitis C can often be cured with oral treatment. Hepatitis B does not currently have a cure, but treatment can reduce the risk of serious liver disease. Hepatitis Testing Day keeps attention on one clear step that can change outcomes: testing before symptoms or complications appear.

Why is Hepatitis Testing Day important?

Hepatitis Testing Day matters because chronic viral hepatitis can remain silent for a long time. Many people with hepatitis B or hepatitis C do not look or feel ill, so they may not know they are infected. Without diagnosis and care, chronic hepatitis can lead to liver damage, liver cancer, liver failure, and death. Testing gives people information they can use to protect their health and reduce the chance of unknowingly passing infection to others.

The day also supports a wider public health goal. When testing is easier to access and more people understand who should be screened, more infections can be found earlier. That helps people receive vaccines, monitoring, treatment, and counseling based on their needs. It also gives clinics, health departments, and community organizations a focused moment to share accurate information and reach people who may face barriers to care.

• Testing is the only way to know many hepatitis B and C infections.
• Early diagnosis can help prevent serious liver complications.
• Hepatitis C treatment can cure most people in a short course.
• Hepatitis B care can reduce the risk of liver disease.
• Clear information can reduce fear, stigma, and confusion.

How to Observe Hepatitis Testing Day

Check personal risk factors and ask a health care provider about hepatitis B and hepatitis C screening. Adults can also look for local clinics, health departments, or community testing events that offer viral hepatitis testing. People who have never been screened can use the day as a prompt to schedule a routine test. Anyone with a positive result should follow up with a qualified medical professional for confirmatory testing, treatment options, and next steps.

Community groups, workplaces, clinics, and public health programs can use the observance to share accurate testing information. Useful outreach includes plain-language fact sheets, reminders about adult screening recommendations, and links to local testing locations. Messages should be calm, practical, and respectful, especially because stigma can keep people from seeking care. The strongest observance is one that helps people move from awareness to action.

• Ask a clinician whether hepatitis testing is recommended.
• Find a local testing site before May 19.
• Share reliable testing information with family or coworkers.
• Encourage community clinics to promote screening access.
• Follow up promptly after any positive test result.

Hepatitis Testing Day Dates

1. https://www.hhs.gov/hepatitis/awareness-months-and-days/hepatitis-testing-day-may-19/index.html[↩]
2. https://www.cdc.gov/hepatitis-awareness/about/index.html[↩]