Hepatitis C

What is Hepatitis C?

Hepatitis C is a blood-borne viral infection that primarily affects the liver. An estimated 58 million people worldwide have chronic HCV infection. The virus is mainly transmitted through exposure to infected blood, including unsafe injection practices, inadequate sterilization of medical equipment, and transfusion of unscreened blood products. Many people with chronic HCV are asymptomatic for years while the virus slowly damages the liver, potentially leading to fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Direct-acting antiviral (DAA) therapies have revolutionized treatment, achieving cure rates above 95%. Early antibody screening followed by confirmatory testing is the key to diagnosis.

Symptoms

• ●Often asymptomatic for years
• ●Fatigue and weakness
• ●Nausea and decreased appetite
• ●Muscle and joint pain
• ●Dark urine
• ●Jaundice in advanced stages
• ●Easy bruising or bleeding

What Causes Hepatitis C?

Hepatitis C is caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV), an RNA virus primarily transmitted through blood-to-blood contact. The most common routes include sharing needles, unsafe medical procedures, and historically through blood transfusions before screening was implemented.

Risk Factors

• ⚠History of injection drug use
• ⚠Blood transfusion before 1992
• ⚠Exposure to unsterilized medical or cosmetic equipment
• ⚠Healthcare workers with needlestick injuries
• ⚠Born to an HCV-positive mother
• ⚠Tattoos or piercings with unsterilized equipment

How to Prevent Hepatitis C

There is no vaccine for hepatitis C, so prevention relies on avoiding blood-to-blood contact. Never share needles, ensure medical and cosmetic procedures use sterile equipment, and practice safe sex if at risk.

When to Get Tested

Test if you have any risk factors for HCV exposure, unexplained elevated liver enzymes, or as part of routine health screening. The CDC recommends all adults be screened at least once.

References & Sources

• [1]
  WHO — Hepatitis CAccessed: 2026-02-24
• [2]
  CDC — Hepatitis CAccessed: 2026-02-24
• [3]
  Mayo Clinic — Hepatitis CAccessed: 2026-02-24