Hepatitis C

Transmission

Hepatitis C is a blood-borne virus (BBV); it is spread by blood-to-blood contact.

In the UK Hepatitis C is most often transmitted through sharing of needles, syringes and other injecting paraphernalia used to take drugs.

It can also be transmitted by sharing straws or rolled bank notes to snort drugs, tattoos, piercings, acupuncture or electrolysis in unlicensed premises, sharing personal items such as razors, hair clippers, toothbrushes, nail scissors and tweezers.

If you have received medical or dental treatment in countries where infection control procedures may be poor, or you have previously received blood or blood products in the UK before September 1991 you may have been exposed to BBVs and should seek testing.

If you become pregnant and you have hepatitis C, there is a risk your baby can become infected therefore speak to your doctor or midwife as soon as possible about treatment and prevention.

Although hepatitis C can be transmitted through sex without a condom, this is rare. It can be more common if bleeding occurs such as during anal or rough sex or when a woman has their period.

Hepatitis C cannot be transmitted through normal social contact.  There is no risk to your friends and family from everyday activities like hugging and kissing, sharing toilets or sharing cups and plates.