Hepatitis C
Hep C is caused by a virus that is found in the blood and attacks the liver.
How would I get it?
- Spread through unprotected sex when blood is present or with a Hep C positive partner,
- Sharing of drug or steroid use equipment (needles, snorting, inhaling, or injecting paraphernalia), or unprofessional tattooing
- Mom can pass on to baby during birth
What kind of symptoms could I have if I am infected?
- Not everyone will have symptoms when they are first infected.
- Some people may experience fatigue, nausea and vomiting, abdominal pain, jaundice (yellowing of the whites of the eyes and skin), dark urine, low-grade fever and loss of appetite.
How do I prevent this?
- Condoms
- Using clean drug equipment
- Avoid sharing personal hygiene items
Unfortunately, there is NO VACCINE to prevent Hepatits C.
How do I get tested?
- Blood test
- Results take 1-2 weeks to come back
What if I test positive?
- More testing will occur to check your liver for any damage
Hep C is treatable with antiviral medications (between 8 to 24 weeks) - Hepatitis C is a publically reportable disease and someone from public health may be contacting you.
- It is best if your partner(s) are notified so they can be tested also. Public health can help with this process if you prefer.
How do I know it’s gone?
- New treatments have a high cure rate of over 90%.
- You will need to see a Hepatitis C specialist and we can help with that.
Need more info? Check out sexandu hyperlink: https://www.sexandu.ca/stis/hepatitis-c/