HEPATITIS C
Hepatitis C is a liver disease caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV). Although some may recover from HCV infection, it can result in serious consequences, including lifelong infection, cirrhosis (scarring) of the liver, liver cancer, liver failure, and even death. Hepatitis C is the main cause of liver transplants in the United States.

How it's spread:
HCV is spread primarily by direct contact with infected blood. Most new HCV infections are due to sharing infected syringes/needles, drugs and works (cotton, water), although it can also be transmitted by sharing toothbrushes and razors. You are at increased risk of HCV infection if you have ever injected drugs. HCV can live on surfaces outside the body and remain infectious for up to four days.

Symptoms:
Only about 20% of those with hepatitis C have symptoms. Even if people have no symptoms, they can still pass on HCV to others and not know it. Symptoms may include:

• Fatigue
  Loss of appetite
  Nausea
  Abdominal pain
  Dark urine
  Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
  

Treatment:
There are medications available for the treatment of chronic (long term) HCV infection. However, there are possible side effects that need to be considered. HCV infected persons should be evaluated by their doctor, avoid alcohol and any substances that are toxic to the liver. For more detailed information on HCV treatment contact your medical provider or visit http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/diseases/hepatitis/c/faq.htm#1f

Long Term Consequences:
Of every 100 persons infected with HCV about:

• 15-25 of persons might clear the virus on their own without treatment
• 55-85 of persons might develop long-term infection
• 70 persons might develop chronic liver disease
• 5-20 persons might develop cirrhosis over a period of 20 to 30 years
• 1-5 of persons might die from the consequences of long term infection (liver cancer or cirrhosis)

People whose immune systems clear the virus can be re-infected if exposed to HCV again.

Prevention:
There is no vaccine to prevent Hepatitis C. The spread of HCV can be prevented by:

• Not sharing objects such as needles and drug use works, razors or toothbrushes, which can potentially have remains of HCV infected blood;
• When getting a tattoo or body piercing, make sure sterile instruments are used and that the establishment is licensed.
• Hepatitis A and B vaccination is recommended for all injection drug users (IDU).