5 Ways to Prevent Hepatitis C

1. Don't Share

If you choose to use illegal drugs, you should never share needles or other drug equipment. Since Hepatitis C is spread through direct contact of infected blood and there is no cure or vaccine for the virus, needle sharing is a risky proposition and the most common cause of Hepatitis C in the United States. You do not need to worry about contracting Hepatitis C if you have to receive a medically appropriate blood transfusion, because since 1992, all donated blood is screened for Hepatitis C and other diseases. If you have concerns about blood you received before 1992, talk with your doctor about getting tested for Hepatitis C. The virus can take years to develop. There is no possibility of contacting the virus when you donate blood in the United States, since only new needles are used, and all equipment is sterilized. Organ transplants are safe, too, because donated organs are tested for the virus before being transplanted.

2. Sanitary Conditions Only

Hepatitis C can spread through body piercing, tattooing, electrolysis, acupuncture or other procedures which might cause the person to bleed. You should make certain the person performing the procedure uses sterile equipment, washes their hands and wears sterile, disposable gloves. Never agree to any of these procedures in a questionable setting.

3. Dangerous Sex

Although rare, the virus can be spread through sexual intercourse. You should use condoms with a new sex partner or if you have several sexual partners. Hepatitis C cannot be spread through casual contact, such as hugging or sneezing. However, you should not share health and beauty equipment with an infected person. Nail clippers, scissors, razors, toothbrushes and other items could have blood on them which could accidentally infect you. Hepatitis C can be passed to an unborn child if the mother is infected with the virus, although this is not common. If you have Hepatitis C, which is a chronic condition, you should discuss the pros and cons of becoming pregnant with your physician before trying to conceive. Hepatitis C cannot be transmitted through breast milk.

4. Think It Over

If you become injured or ill in a developing country, weigh all your medical choices carefully. Third world countries may not screen blood before a transfusion and do not always sterilize equipment. This is a major cause of Hepatitis C in developing nations.

5. Take Extra Care

Health care and public safety workers face additional risks when they deal with blood. If you are in this field, you need to take all precautions. Wear disposable gloves and dispose of needles following safety protocols.