Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C is a blood-borne viral infection that can be very deadly. About 20% of people infected with the Hepatitis C virus will naturally clear the infection within two to six months. Another 20% will have the condition develop into serious liver cirrhosis over a 20-30 year period. The rest will remain well, never develop liver damage or have mild to moderate liver damage.

Causes of Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C is a blood borne infection mainly transmitted through the exchange of blood. It is a common infection for those who share contaminated needles, spoons and filters to inject drugs like heroin. It is also possible to be infected with Hepatitis C if:

• You receive blood transfusions from contaminated blood. This is very rare in this day and age. However, if you had or have blood transfusions that were not screened for the virus, you may be infected. This normally happens in hospitals that use medical equipment that is not sterilized properly
• Bodily fluids - In very rare cases, Hepatitis C can be transmitted during sexual intercourse.
• Mother to child - It is likely for a mother to transmit the condition to their baby,
  Sharing personal hygiene products like toothbrushes, scissors and razors. When you go to any tattoo or body piercing parlor, ensure that their equipment is properly sterilized.
• Needle-stick injury - Health workers, nurses, laboratory assistants are at a very high risk of accidentally puncturing themselves with infected needles while at work.

Contrary to popular belief, it is not possible to transmit the Hepatitis C virus through social contact like kissing, hugging or sharing kitchen utensils. However, proper care should be taken to ensure there is no blood exchange.

Symptoms of Hepatitis C

Most people rarely experience any symptoms when infected by the virus. Some clear the virus from their body within six months. In some the virus remains active in their bodies for many years. They might show no symptoms but can still transmit the virus to others. These are considered to have chronic Hepatitis C.

For those with chronic Hepatitis C that may show symptoms, these may include:

• Tiredness,
• Nausea,
• Muscle aches,
• Weight loss,
• Alcohol intolerance, and
• Jaundice that causes your skin and the whites of your eyes to become yellow,

About 20% of those with chronic hepatitis C develop liver cirrhosis. Some of these go on to develop liver cancer or complete liver failure.

Treatment of Hepatitis C

There is no vaccine against the Hepatitis C virus. The usual treatment is a combination of interferon and ribavirin. This treatment lasts for six to twelve months and even if it does not clear the virus from your body, it may slow down the progression of the inflammation and liver damage.

Prevention of Hepatitis C

Since there is no Hepatitis C vaccine, the best option is to reduce your risk to the condition.

The people most at risk of getting the virus are those who share personal hygiene items as well as needles. Avoid sharing needles, syringes, spoons and filters even if you are a drug user. Never share razors, toothbrushes, or towels.

Always practice safe sex. Even if the risk is infection is small, you could also avoid other STI’s.

Health care workers who come into constant contact with needles and hospital equipment should exercise due caution when using the equipment and always were protective clothing and use sterilized equipment.

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