Hepatitis C: Know the Facts

Facts about Hepatitis C

• You can still have sex. Hepatitis C can be spread through sex, but this does not happen often. Using a latex condom every time you have sex helps protect your partner. But talk with your partner. Do what feels right for both of you.

• Your family members are safe. Hepatitis C only spreads through contact with infected blood. It's safe to touch, kiss, sneeze, cough, and share food as long as there is no blood. Do not share things that might have blood on them, like toothbrushes, razors, or needles.

• Most people with hepatitis C don’t die of it when treated.

• You can greatly reduce your chance of having life-threatening liver problems. Do not drink alcohol, lose weight if needed, and take other steps to protect your liver.

• In general, breastfeeding with hepatitis C is safe. But if you are being treated for hepatitis C, or if your nipples are cracked or bleeding, you should not breastfeed.

• You can have hepatitis C and not feel sick. Most people who have hepatitis C don’t have obvious symptoms. Severe symptoms are most common in later stages of the disease when cirrhosis develops. Because hepatitis C often doesn't cause symptoms, your doctor may recommend a screening test.

• Hepatitis C is 90% curable with treatment. Talk with your doctor about treatment choices. Medicines can be taken by mouth. Injections are no longer needed.

• There is no vaccine for hepatitis C. People who have been cured can get the disease again.

• Hepatitis C can affect your whole body. Talk about any signs of hepatitis C with your doctor.

• People with hepatitis C may have other health problems. These can include diabetes, vascular disease, kidney problems, skin rashes, eye problems, and thyroid disease. Hepatitis C can cause these problems or make them worse. Talk to a specialist about your risks.