Risk Factors for Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C (HCV) is a contagious blood disease. Thus, an infected person can spread it to another person via blood-to-blood contact. The most common way HCV is spread today is through sharing needles or other equipment to inject drugs. But, before 1992, when widespread screening of the blood supply began in the United States, Hepatitis C was commonly spread through transfusions and organ transplants.

A recent study in The Lancet Infectious Diseases suggests that the spread of hepatitis C has more to do with the use of needles for medical purposes rather than risky personal behaviors, which is the prevailing belief among many people. According to the study, “Many medical procedures have been linked to the spread of hepatitis C virus, including use of contaminated multi-dose vials, finger-stick devices, and surgical procedures. Before 1950, injection technology was characterized by machine-made glass and metal syringes, which were typically sterilized manually and reused because of their high cost. Between 1950 and 1960, such syringes were phased out and replaced by disposable plastic, single-use syringes.”

Lower-Risk Activities

While HCV can be spread through sexual activity, the risk is actually low, according to the National Institutes of Health. Likewise, concern over infection from a tattoo is not necessary, as studies have not shown HCV to be spread through licensed, commercial tattooing facilities. But, transmission of any infectious disease is possible when poor infection-control practices are used during tattooing or piercing.

It’s also possible, though less common, to get HCV through sharing personal care items such as toothbrushes or razors that have come into contact with an infected person. The virus can survive on surfaces at room temperature for up to three weeks

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