Hepatitis C is a viral infection that can cause serious liver damage. The virus is transmitted through contact with contaminated blood, and is most commonly passed on through the sharing of needles amongst drug users. Although rare, it can also be passed on through unprotected sex.
The symptoms vary between individuals, with some showing no effects whilst others may experience fatigue, loss of appetite, mild abdominal discomfort, nausea and vomiting, weight loss, jaundice,
flu-like symptoms and difficulty concentrating.
Around 15 to 20% of those infected will clear the virus naturally from the body within 2 to 6 months of infection. Where this is not the case, the infection usually develops into a chronic or long-term state.
Chronic hepatitis C may be treated by a combination of immune modulating drugs and antiviral agents.
Transmission of hepatitis C can be prevented by avoiding contact with infected blood or blood products.
