About HCV
Causes and Transmission |
Hepatitis C is an inflammation of the liver caused by infection with the
hepatitis C virus.
Hepatitis C infection is
caused by hepatitis C virus (HCV). Transmission of the virus usually
occurs by blood or semen contact.
Persons who may be at risk for hepatitis C are those who:
- Received a blood
transfusion prior to July 1992
- Received blood,
blood products, or solid organs from a donor who has hepatitis C
- Injected street
drugs or shared a needle with someone who has hepatitis C
- Have been on
long-term kidney dialysis
- Have had frequent
workplace contact with blood (for instance, as a healthcare worker)
- Have had unprotected
sex with a person who has hepatitis C
- Shared personal
items, such as toothbrushes and razors, with someone who has
hepatitis C
- Were born to
hepatitis C infected mother
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