Vermont Health Department will be supporting the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, to encourage all those born between 1945 and 1965, to undergo testing for hepatitis C, which is accomplished by a simple blood test.

Officials have warned that approximately 12,000 people living in Vermont would be suffering from the viral infection and they might not be aware of it.

Figures revealed that 3% of baby boomers (those born during 1945 to 1965) are even infected by the virus. In total 75% of people are infected by the virus.

Chronic hepatitis C is the major cause of liver cancer and also behind the liver damage, thus leading to transplants and 1% to 2% of the residents of US are suffering from the condition.

The major reasons listed out behind the occurrence of the condition have been stated to be: use of shared syringes, transfusion of blood or organ donation before the year 1992. Moreover, even unprotected tattooing and body piercing have been held responsible.

Hence, health officials are urging baby boomers to get themselves tested.

Dr. John Scott from Seattle's Harborview Medical Center said, “Patients in this age group don't think they're at risk for the disease. The virus can go undetected for years, and if left untreated, can cause serious disease and even death”.