Hepatitis C is a virus that infects the liver and spreads through blood. Most people have no symptoms for many years, while the infection slowly scars the liver. The good news is that hepatitis C can now be cured in most people with a short course of tablets.
Who should be tested
- Anyone who received blood or blood products before screening became routine in the early 1990s
- Anyone who has ever injected drugs, even once
- People on long-term dialysis, or with HIV
- Tattoos or piercings done with equipment that may not have been sterile
- Children of mothers with hepatitis C
- Anyone with abnormal liver tests without a clear cause
Tests
A blood test for hepatitis C antibodies shows whether you have ever been infected. If it is positive, a second test (HCV RNA) shows whether the virus is still present. Liver function tests and a FibroScan show how much the liver has been affected.
Treatment
Modern antiviral tablets (direct-acting antivirals) are usually taken for 8 to 12 weeks and have few side effects. They cure more than 95% of people. A blood test 12 weeks after finishing treatment confirms the cure.
After cure
- People who had cirrhosis before treatment still need six-monthly liver cancer surveillance, because the risk falls but does not disappear.
- Cure does not give immunity. Reinfection is possible if exposed again.
- There is no vaccine for hepatitis C, but vaccination against hepatitis A and B is advised if you are not immune.
General information only. Reviewed by Dr Chia Chung King, 2026-11-07. Book a consultation.