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/

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