The hepatitis C virus (HCV) spreads with contact through blood and sometimes sexual contact. There is no vaccine, but can be cured in more than 95 percent of cases with treatment. 

You can find a provider to get tested or learn more about hepatitis C below.

How Hepatitis C Spreads

Hepatitis C (spreads when the infected blood enters another person's body. This can happen through:

• Sharing needles, syringes, nail clippers, toothbrushes or other items that may have blood on them.
• Are born to a parent who has hepatitis C.
• Get stuck by a needle or razor, usually in healthcare settings.
• Get tattoos or piercings in unregulated places.
• Have sex with a someone with hepatitis C.

People who receive blood transfusions or organ transplants before 1992 may also be at risk.

Hepatitis C does not spread through casual contact like hugging, kissing, coughing, sneezing, or sharing food, or drinks.

How to Prevent Hepatitis C

There is no vaccine, but you can lower your risk by taking these steps: 

• Never share needles, syringes, or medical tools that might have blood on them.
• Use condoms or other barrier methods during sex.
• Follow safety practices when handling blood in healthcare settings.
• Choose licensed tattoo or piercing studios that use clean and regulated equipment.
• Get tested! 

Testing and Diagnosis

A simple blood test can show if you have been exposed to the hepatitis C virus. Because some people clear the virus on their own, another blood test may be needed to check if you still have the infection. You should not wait to get tested, even if you do not have symptoms. 

Testing is recommended for:

• Adults 18 years and older who do not know their HCV status;
• All pregnant people during each pregnancy;
• People who inject drugs, test regularly;
• People with HIV;
• Babies born to a mother with hepatitis C;
• People exposed to blood from someone with hepatitis C;
• People with abnormal liver tests or liver disease;
• People on dialysis;
• People who received donated blood or organs before July 1992; and
• People who received clotting factor concentrates before 1987. 

Symptoms

Most people with hepatitis C do not have symptoms. When symptoms appear, they may include:

• Dark urine
• Pale stools
• Yellow skin or eyes (jaundice)
• Fatigue
• Stomach upset
• Joint pain
• Fever

Treatment and Cure

Doctors recommend treatment for everyone with hepatitis C, whether it’s chronic or acute (including children three or older and teenagers). Treatments usually involve taking pills for eight to 12 weeks. More than 95 percent of people are cured with few side effects.

Taking Care of Your Liver

People with chronic hepatitis C should see a doctor regularly. Avoid alcohol and check with a health professional before taking any prescription pills, supplements, or over-the-counter medications, since some can harm the liver.

Find a Hepatitis C Provider

Healthcare professionals who treat hepatitis C include primary care physicians, hepatologists, gastroenterologists, and infectious disease specialists. If you have been diagnosed with hepatitis C or feel that you may be at risk, talk to your primary care physician or use the provider locater.