Overview
Hepatitis C is a viral infection affecting the liver. It is primarily bloodborne but can occasionally be sexually transmitted, especially with certain risk factors.
Causes and transmission
- Mostly transmitted through blood, such as sharing needles or medical exposure.
- Sexual transmission is less efficient but can occur.
How it is assessed
- Blood tests screen for hepatitis C antibodies and viral RNA.
- Further assessment determines chronic infection.
Management considerations
- Direct-acting antiviral treatment can cure most infections.
- Liver monitoring may be needed before and after treatment.
Prevention
- Avoid sharing needles.
- Use barrier protection and avoid contact with blood.
- There is no widely used hepatitis C vaccine.
Key points
- Primarily bloodborne
- Curable with modern treatment
- Testing is simple blood test
- Sexual transmission is less common
When to seek care
- Routine screening in risk groups
- Abnormal liver tests
- Partner questions