What is Hep C?
Hepatitis C is a viral infection that can lead to liver failure and liver cancer. Hepatitis C can cause both acute and chronic infections, and it’s important to get tested if you think you may have been exposed to the virus.
How is Hep C Spread?
Hepatitis C is transmitted when blood from someone with Hep C enters the body of another person. This can happen when sharing needles, syringes, or other equipment used for injecting drugs, or through contact with contaminated blood or blood products. It can also be transmitted from a pregnant individual to their baby during childbirth, or through sexual contact with an individual living with hepatitis C.
Hepatitis C is not spread through casual contact, like hugging, kissing, or sharing food or drinks.
What are the Symptoms of Hepatitis C?
Many people with hepatitis C don’t have any symptoms, especially in the early stages.
If symptoms do occur, they may include:
Jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes)
Nausea and vomiting
Dark urine
Fever
Loss of appetite
Tiredness
Weight loss
Headache
If you suspect you may have been exposed to hepatitis C, it’s important to get tested, even if you don’t have any symptoms.
How Can You Prevent Hep C?
- Avoid sharing needles, syringes, or any other equipment used for injecting drugs.
- If you get a tattoo or piercing, make sure it’s done with new and sterilized equipment.
- Practice safe sex by using condoms and avoiding unprotected sex with multiple partners.
- If you are pregnant and have hepatitis C, talk to your healthcare provider about steps you can take to reduce the risk of transmission during childbirth.
Ready to Get Tested?
By knowing the risks and taking steps to prevent exposure, you can protect yourself and others from hepatitis C. Remember, knowledge is power, and understanding hepatitis C can help you make informed choices for a healthy future.
One of the best ways to prevent the spread of hepatitis C is getting tested and getting treated, if you have it. Ask your healthcare provider about testing options or connect with a care coordinator today.