Tri-County Spinal Care Center Hepatitis B Investigation

The S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control is asking all patients of Tri-County Spinal Care Center who received any type of injection there to be tested for hepatitis B, hepatitis C and HIV. Three patients who received spinal injections at the center in February tested positive for hepatitis B, and more than 20 others have been encouraged to get tested. DHEC is asking all patients who received an injection of any kind at the Tri-County Spinal Care Center since September 2011 to be tested. Its investigation determined that procedures may have been performed that resulted in potential exposure to an infection.

What is Hepatitis B?

Hepatitis B is a virus that infects the liver. Chronic Hepatitis B is a long term infection which can damage the liver. Babies and young children are especially susceptible to this infection. It can be contracted by unprotected sex, getting a tattoo and even sharing razors. Clinics are required to follow proper procedures and minimize the potential for such infections. When they fail to do so, the results can have a life-changing effect on those who contract this virus. Clore Law Group is prepared to help those who need long term treatment due to negligence receive the compensation they need.

Symptoms of Hepatitis B

Even if you have no symptoms of hepatitis B, you could be infected and spread the virus. Symptoms are much like that of the flu and can include:

• Feeling tired
• Fever
• Headache
• Lack of appetite
• Nausea or vomiting
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Muscle aches and joint pain
• Skin rash

A simple blood test can confirm if you have contracted hepatitis B. DHEC is encouraging testing for anyone who received an injection at the Tri-County Spinal Care Center as far back as September 2011. If you received such treatment, contact your doctor or DHEC's Northwoods Health Clinic, (843) 953-0095, for more information about testing.