Hepatitis C is a chronic disease of the liver that often lies dormant. In time, it generally causes scarring of the liver, liver failure and other complications such as liver cancer. The majority of those infected are treated with medications, and about half are cured. Those who are not cured often develop end-stage liver failure, cirrhosis and liver cancer, at which point a liver transplant is required. The new liver will also become infected with the disease. There are currently no vaccines for the disease, and up to 300 million people are affected worldwide. Hepatitis C is spread from blood to blood contact.
IV Drug Use
An estimated 60 to 80 percent of intravenous drug users are infected with hepatitis C. Sharing needles or drug paraphernalia is the most common form of transmission of hepatitis C.
Sexual Contact
The risk of transmitting hepatitis C in vaginal intercourse is considered extremely low. The Centers for Disease Control does not recommend that couples in long-term heterosexual relationships use condoms to prevent the spread of hepatitis C, because hepatitis is spread through blood to blood contact, not sexual contact. However, other forms of sexual contact (anal, fisting or sex toys) may increase the risk of transmission.
Exposure to Blood
Universal precautions should always be used when exposure to blood is a possibility. Accidental exposure to blood can cause transmission of the virus. It is possible for a mother to transmit hepatitis C to her baby during labor. The disease does not appear to be spread through breastfeeding.
Tattoos and Piercings
Tattoo instruments and piercing needles can spread hepatitis C if proper sterilization is not followed. Sterile instruments should always be used.
