Hepatitis C
Hepatitis C: prevention and treatment
How is hepatitis C prevented?
There's no vaccine for hepatitis C.
These can reduce the risk of getting hepatitis C:
- not sharing injecting equipment, 'works', straws, pipes, bank notes etc when taking drugs or steroids
- using a condom for anal sex
- using latex gloves for fisting
- avoid sharing toothbrushes, nail scissors, razors and so on with someone you know has the hepatitis C virus.
It's a good idea not to share sex toys as the virus can live in dried blood for a few days. Alternatively, cover them with a fresh condom for each person they're used on or wash them with a mix of one part bleach and 10 parts water
You should also take steps to prevent the spread of infections during any sex scene that draws blood or if being pierced, tattooed or undergoing medical procedures.
There should be no risk in the UK with medical care or reputable piercing and tattooing establishments.
How is hepatitis C treated?
Infection is confirmed through a blood test which looks for hepatitis C antibodies, which can take up to six months to appear in the blood.
Treatment lasts six to 12 months and involves weekly injections of the drug Pegylated Interferon and taking the drug Ribavirin daily in pill form. This treatment often has flu-like side effects and is successful for about half of people treated.
If hepatitis C is cured, it can be caught again.
Hepatitis C and HIV
Hepatitis C may get worse more quickly if you have HIV as well. If you have both infections you and your doctor may have to decide which illness needs treating first, as HIV drugs and hepatitis C infection can both damage the liver.
More information
You can get more information about hepatitis C from these organisations:
The Hepatitis C Trust
Helpline: 0845 223 4424
The NHS Hepatitis C Service
http://www.nhs.uk/hepatitisc/Pages/default.aspx
Information line: 0800 451 451 (10am to 10pm)