HEPATITIS C VIRUS (HCV)

This is also a blood-borne infection. It usually takes 8 weeks for liver function abnormalities to occur following exposure to the virus.

It causes a long- standing (chronic) infection, and can in turn cause hepatocellular carcinoma (liver cancer).

Transmission:

•   Transfusion of unscreened blood
•   Sharing of needles by intravenous drug users
•   Organ transplantation
•   Use of unsterilized needles for dental procedures, tattooing.

Prevention:

•   Proper screening of blood donors
•   Use new needles each time, rather than repeating the use of one
•   Do not share needles with anyone
•   Proper sterilization of instruments prior to use

NO VACCINE IS AVAILABLE YET FOR HEPATITIS C, therefore adequate preventive measures should be taken.