What is Hepatitis C?
Hepatitis C is a chronic contagious viral disease that affects the liver. It is caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV), that is transmitted through contact with the blood of an affected individual.
Hepatitis viruses include Hepatitis A, B, D and E. The hepatitis A virus (HAV) spreads through contaminated food and water. Infections are mostly mild and can be cured completely. The hepatitis B virus (HBV) spreads through contact with blood and other body fluids. Safe and effective vaccines are present against both HAV and HBV.
In the case of hepatitis C, no vaccine is available against infection. The infection may take years to produce symptoms; most people thus remain unaware of being infected. By the time they become ill and seek help, considerable damage has been done. Early diagnosis is hence vital.
HCV is 10 times more infectious than HIV when comparing direct blood-to-blood transmission.
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