Hepatitis
C
Hepatitis (HCV) causes inflammation of the liver. People
who are in high risk situations for Hep C include anyone who has had
a blood transfusion prior to
1992, those with tattoos, those with multiple sexual partners, and IV drug
users. Individuals with body piercing and those who have snorted cocaine
are also at
risk.
The virus in found in the blood. It is not clear whether it can be transmitted
through saliva or breast milk. It may be transmitted by any potential contact
with blood, for example a razor, tattooing, and body piercing. All people with
HCV are potentially infectious.
There is NO VACCINE for HCV. There are various strains of HCV and the virus undergoes
mutations. Also, there is no effective immune globulin preparation. Most infected
people do not have symptoms. The incubation period varies but averages about
7-8 weeks. The virus in the blood can cause liver damage. If symptoms are present,
they may be very mild and flu-like. Most people do not have jaundice, however
it can sometimes occur along with dark urine.
HCV may identified by anti-HCV testing in approximately 60% of people as
soon as 5 to 8 weeks after exposure. Few people are able to clear the virus
from their
blood. Over 80% of cases each year become chronic. Chronic infections refers
to
those cases that do not clear up in within 6 months.
Currently there are three forms of treatment. Avoiding contact with blood of
an infected person and practicing safer sex decreases the risk of contracting
HCV.
MORE INFORMATION >>
Hepatitis: Get the Facts :: Hepatitis
A :: Hepatitis
B :: Hepatitis C :: Safer Sex
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