The virus spreads through contact with infected blood. It can be acute (short-term) or chronic (long-lasting). While no vaccine exists, most people can be cured with antiviral medications.

How common is hepatitis C?

• Worldwide: 2%–6% of people in some regions (Eastern Europe, Africa, Asia) are infected.

  
  

• United States: <1% of the population is infected.

  
  

• Most new cases: In people who inject drugs.

  
  

• Chronic hepatitis C still affects over 2 million Americans, but numbers are dropping due to better treatments.

Who is more likely to get hepatitis C?

You’re at higher risk if you:

• Inject/have injected drugs

  
  

• Have HIV

  
  

• Had dialysis

  
  

• Received blood/organs before 1992

  
  

• Have hemophilia and received clotting factor before 1987

  
  

• Work with blood/needles

  
  

• Were born to a mother with hepatitis C

  
  

• Were born in a high-prevalence country

Should I be screened for hepatitis C?

Yes, if you:

• Are an adult (screened at least once)

  
  

• Are pregnant (screen during each pregnancy)

  
  

• Have risk factors

  
  

• Simply request screening

Complications

If untreated, chronic hepatitis C can lead to:

• Cirrhosis (scarring of the liver)

  
  

• Liver failure

  
  

• Liver cancer

Symptoms

Acute infection (2–12 weeks post exposure) may cause:

• Dark urine, light stool

  
  

• Fatigue

  
  

• Fever

  
  

• Joint/abdominal pain

  
  

• Loss of appetite

  
  

• Jaundice (yellow skin/eyes)

Chronic infection often has no symptoms until complications arise (e.g., cirrhosis symptoms like swelling, weight loss, confusion, itchy skin).

Causes

Caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV), spread through blood-to-blood contact, including:

• Shared needles

  
  

• Accidental needle sticks

  
  

• Unsterile tattoo/piercing tools

  
  

• Shared razors/toothbrushes

  
  

• Birth from infected mother

  
  

• Unprotected sex (less common)

Not spread through: food, water, coughing, hugging, or breast milk (unless nipples are cracked/bleeding).

Diagnosis

• Medical history and physical exam

  
  

  Blood tests to:

  
  

  • Check for past or current infection

    
    

  • Measure viral load and genotype

  
  

• Liver tests: Elastography, ultrasound, or biopsy to assess damage

Treatment

• Antiviral medications (8–12 weeks) cure >95% of cases

  
  

• Treatment is well tolerated, but check with your doctor before combining with other meds or supplements

Cost: Can be expensive, but insurance and assistance programs are available.

How do doctors treat complications of hepatitis C?

• Cirrhosis: Managed with medications and sometimes surgery

  
  

• Liver cancer: Regular imaging and blood tests

  
  

• Liver failure: May require a liver transplant

Prevention

• Don’t share needles or personal items like razors

  
  

• Use sterile equipment for tattoos or piercings

  
  

• Practice safe sex, especially with multiple partners

  
  

• Avoid contact with blood or open sores

  
  

• Use standard precautions in healthcare or caregiving settings

How can I prevent spreading hepatitis C to others?

• Don’t share needles or personal care items

  
  

• Cover wounds and avoid blood contact with others

  
  

• Inform your healthcare providers

  
  

• Use protection during sex

  
  

• Do not donate blood, sperm, or organs

Is a hepatitis C vaccine available?

No, there is no vaccine for hepatitis C yet. Prevention focuses on avoiding exposure to infected blood.

What should I eat and drink if I have hepatitis C?

• Eat a balanced, liver-friendly diet

  
  

• Avoid alcohol and recreational drugs

  
  

• Talk to your doctor before using supplements or herbs, as some may harm your liver

Clinical Trials for Hepatitis C

Clinical trials help improve understanding and treatment of hepatitis C. Ask your doctor if you’re interested in participating.

Important Reminder: This information is intended only to provide general guidance. It does not provide definitive medical advice. It is very important that you consult your doctor about your specific condition.