Find out about Hepatitis C, whether you are at risk and how to avoid being infected with the virus.
Are You at Risk of Hepatitis C?
You may have Hepatitis C without knowing it. At any time in your life have you ever:
-
shared equipment for injecting drugs?
-
had medical or dental treatment abroad where infection control may be inadequate?
-
shared a razor or toothbrush with someone who has hepatitis C?
-
had unprotected sex with someone who has the virus?
-
had a piercing, tattoo or acupuncture with non sterile equipment?
-
had a blood transfusion before 1991?
What is Hepatitis C?
It is a blood-borne virus affecting the liver that can go undetected for decades. Many people experience no symptoms for many years.
The Hepatitis C virus can seriously damage the liver and affect its ability to function correctly. About one in five people with chronic infection will eventually develop severe liver damage (cirrhosis), which can lead to liver cancer or liver failure and the need for liver transplantation.
Hepatitis C is mainly spread through contact with the blood of a person who is infected. Less commonly it can also be passed on via other body fluids.
You cannot catch it through everyday contact such as holding hands, hugging, kissing or through sharing toilets, crockery or kitchen utensils.
Face It NHS Awareness Campaign
For advice and information about Hepatitis C go to the NHS Face It awareness campaign website, call the information line on 0800 451451 or visit your GP.
You can check whether you are at risk of Hepatitis C using the online self assessment tool on the NHS website, or download a Face It information leaflet from the NHS below in PDF format.
