Research & Publications > Hepatitis C - Fact Sheet

Hepatitis C - Fact Sheet

Hepatitis C is a virus that causes inflammation of the liver and can cause chronic hepatitis, liver cirrhosis or liver cancer. Hepatitis C is one of several hepatitis viruses, which differ in their mode of transmission.

How is hepatitis C transmitted?
Hepatitis C is spread through contaminated intravenous drug needles or through blood or blood products containing the virus. About 85 percent of people with this virus become lifetime carriers of hepatitis C and can infect others. Some people contract hepatitis C through unknown means.

How do I know if I have hepatitis C?
Hepatitis C is often asymptomatic. Some patients, however, will experience fatigue, loss of appetite, mild fever and jaundice. These symptoms, which can mimic other illnesses, can develop within two to six months of exposure to the virus. Hepatitis C is diagnosed through a blood test.

What are the consequences of having hepatitis C?
Hepatitis C can result in acute or chronic infection. Of all the forms of viral hepatitis, hepatitis C is most likely to be chronic. Chronic hepatitis is a serious condition in which the infection and symptoms persist indefinitely. Liver cirrhosis or cancer can result.

How is hepatitis C treated?
There is no specific therapy for acute hepatitis C, other than rest and good nutrition. Patients are advised to stay away from alcohol during the illness and for some time afterward as well. Those with chronic hepatitis C may be helped with an antiviral drug called alpha interferon. Recently combination therapy of alpha interferon and ribavirin appears promising.

Can hepatitis C be prevented?
There is no vaccine available against hepatitis C. People who have had it are not immune to other forms of the virus, unless they receive a vaccine for hepatitis A or B.

A blood test can determine whether you have a chronic infection or are a carrier of hepatitis C. You may want to consider wearing a condom during intercourse if you or your sexual partner are carriers.

Is the blood supply safe?
Yes. In 1990, hospitals and blood banks began testing donated blood for hepatitis C. People who test positive for the virus are rejected as volunteer blood donors.

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