Hepatitis C is a contagious liver infection that can cause serious illness. Someone with chronic hepatitis C can experience issues like cirrhosis and liver cancer that can be fatal. The infection is transferred when one comes in contact with the blood of an infected person. Thanks to advanced medicine, the condition is treatable and involves oral medications prescribed for two to six months, depending on the diagnosis.

Causes and transmission

Hepatitis C is caused by a virus called hepatitis C, also called HCV. However, the virus has several genotypes and subtypes which can affect people and cause complications to their health. Once the virus enters the body, it contaminates the bloodstream and affects the functioning of the liver specifically.

Out of all the seven genotypes that affect humans, type 1 is the most common one observed in patients in the US. While the treatment plan for chronic hepatitis C is quite similar for all, depending on the genotype of the virus, some treatment options may change according to the doctor’s detailed diagnosis.

Here are different ways in which the virus can be transferred into the body and infect a person:

1. Sharing needles
Those using unsterile needles in tattoo parlors or even personally are at high risk of getting infected with the virus.

2. Illicit substance use
Those who consume illicit substances are at high risk of transferring this virus through needles, pipes, and tourniquets. There could be drops of infected blood remaining on the equipment, which could then enter one’s bloodstream. Overusing substances can cause cracked lips or give nosebleeds. The blood can be found on any of this shared equipment.

3. Blood transfusion
While it is safe to get a blood transfusion, it is important to be sure that the blood is not infected and the needles being used are sterile and clean.

4. Nonsterile equipment
Any equipment that has potentially been infected with the blood of a hepatitis C-positive patient needs to be sterilized immediately and discarded safely and hygienically.

5. Grooming equipment
Things like nail clippers, razors, or toothbrushes that may have blood stains or drops on them are risky to use. One must ensure to follow proper hygiene protocols when sharing a bathroom. Also, be careful to dispose of sanitary napkins or bandages that might have blood on them.

6. Unprotected sex
This is unsafe not just for the spreading of hepatitis C but also for STDs. Menstruating women, who have hepatitis C, are likely to spread the virus during sex. This is uncommon, but it is still something to be careful about.

7. Pregnant mothers
Soon-to-be mothers are at high risk of passing down this virus to their new baby if they are infected. One should speak to their doctor about an appropriate treatment plan to avoid spreading the virus to their baby.