Also known as: Hepatitis C Virus Infection
Hepatitis C is a viral infection causing liver inflammation that can lead to serious liver damage. Unlike hepatitis B, there is no vaccine, but it is now curable with antiviral treatment.
Approximately 58 million people worldwide have chronic hepatitis C infection. The revolutionary development of direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) has transformed it from a chronic, progressive disease into a curable one.
HCV is primarily transmitted through blood-to-blood contact. Unlike hepatitis B, 55-85% of acute infections become chronic because the immune system often fails to clear the virus.
Modern DAA regimens cure over 95% of chronic HCV infections in just 8-12 weeks, regardless of genotype. The WHO aims for HCV elimination by 2030.
People with Hepatitis C often experience the following symptoms.
Most people with chronic HCV have no symptoms for decades, only discovered through screening or when liver damage becomes advanced.
The most common reported symptom, often attributed to other causes before HCV diagnosis.
Cryoglobulinemia, kidney disease, joint pain, and skin conditions can occur before liver symptoms.
Jaundice, ascites, easy bruising, and confusion indicate cirrhosis from untreated chronic infection.
Certain factors may increase your likelihood of developing Hepatitis C.
Common approaches to managing hepatitis c. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized treatment.
Sofosbuvir/velpatasvir or glecaprevir/pibrentasvir cure >95% of infections in 8-12 weeks with minimal side effects.
Liver fibrosis staging (FibroScan or biopsy), HCV genotyping, and drug interaction review.
SVR12 (undetectable virus 12 weeks after treatment) confirms cure. Ongoing liver monitoring for those with cirrhosis.
For people who inject drugs: needle exchange, opioid substitution therapy, and treatment as prevention.
Anti-HCV antibody screening test (positive means exposure). HCV RNA confirms active infection. Genotyping guides treatment selection. FibroScan assesses liver fibrosis.
See a doctor for screening if you have any risk factors. Seek care for jaundice, dark urine, persistent fatigue, or right upper abdominal pain.
Steps that may help reduce the risk of developing or worsening hepatitis c.
No vaccine available
Avoid sharing needles or injection equipment
Screen blood products
Universal screening recommended for all adults
If left untreated or poorly managed, hepatitis c may lead to:
Yes. Modern antiviral medications cure over 95% of hepatitis C infections in 8-12 weeks.
Yes. Cure does not provide immunity. Reinfection is possible with continued risk behaviour.
Yes. The CDC recommends universal HCV screening for all adults at least once in their lifetime.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.