What is Hepatitis C?

Hepatitis (or 'Hep') C is a blood-borne infection that damages the liver and causes liver cancer.

Because Hep C often doesn't have any symptoms, many people with Hep C don't know they have it.

Most people with Hep C have not been treated.

Hepatitis C can be cured. Treatment is simple and effective with a cure rate of 95%. Treatment today consists of 1-3 tablets a day, for 8 to 12 weeks, with little to no side effects.

The World Health Organisation and the Australian Government have set a target for viral hepatitis to be eliminated by 2030. That's why it's even more important to spread the word about Hep C and make sure that everyone that is at risk of infection gets a blood test.

Should I get tested for Hep C?

Everyone should be tested for hepatitis C, even those without symptoms or known liver disease. Testing for Hepatitis C is especially important if you:

• were born from 1945 to 1965 (age group with highest rate)
• have abnormal liver function test results with no identified cause
• are a healthcare worker who has had a blood or needle stick injury
• were exposed to reusable, unsterilised equipment during medical/ceremonial/tattoo procedures
• have injected or inhaled illicit drugs
• have been in prison
• are a haemophiliac treated with clotting factors before 1987
• have undergone long-term haemodialysis
• received blood transfusions or organ transplants before 1992
• are living with HIV
• were born to a mother with hepatitis C.

People with an ongoing risk of exposure should have a yearly Hepatitis C PCR RNA test.

How is Hep C diagnosed?

Testing for hepatitis C involves two types of blood tests:

• Hepatitis C antibody test – this indicates previous contact with the virus.
• Hepatitis C PCR RNA – this indicates current infection and how much virus is in the blood.

Tests for hepatitis C are not part of regular blood tests. See your GP to arrange testing.

If you have Hepatitis C and are seeking treatment, you can contact us directly for an appointment. 

Phone or text our Liver Nurse on: 0481 909 741