Hepatitis C
About
Hepatitis C is a viral infection that affects the liver. Some people clear the virus on their own, but for many it becomes a long-term infection that can slowly damage the liver over time. This can lead to scarring of the liver, liver failure, or liver cancer if it is not treated. Many people do not feel unwell when they first get hepatitis C, so they may not know they have it. A simple blood test can diagnose it, and modern treatment can cure most people.
Symptoms
often no symptoms, tiredness, fever, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, joint or muscle aches, dark urine, pale stools, jaundice, itchy skin
Transmission
Hepatitis C is spread through blood-to-blood contact. This can happen by sharing needles, syringes, or other drug-injecting equipment, using unsterile tattoo or piercing equipment, needlestick injuries, or from blood transfusions or medical treatment in countries or times where blood was not properly screened. It can also be passed during sex where blood is present, though this is less common. It is not spread by hugging, kissing, coughing, sneezing, or sharing cups and cutlery.
Prevention
Do not share needles, syringes, or any injecting equipment. Make sure tattooing, piercing, and medical procedures use sterile equipment. Avoid sharing razors, toothbrushes, or anything that may have blood on it. Use condoms during sex where there may be blood exposure. Get tested if you think you may have been exposed. There is no vaccine for hepatitis C.
Treatment & Resources
Direct-acting antivirals (DAAs)
Direct-acting antivirals, usually called DAAs, are the main treatment for hepatitis C. These medicines work by stopping the hepatitis C virus from making copies of itself, which allows the virus to clear from the body. Treatment is usually a short course of tablets and cures more than 95% of people.
Find Supports near you
You can get tested across Ireland
Find resources and supports in your local community.