Getting Tested for Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C is a viral infection that can cause liver inflammation, liver damage, and even liver failure. It is important to get tested for hepatitis C if you think you may have been exposed to the virus.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone born between 1945 and 1965 get a one-time test for hepatitis C, even if they do not have symptoms or know of any exposure to the virus. This is because people born during these years have a higher risk of hepatitis C infection.

If you have risk factors for hepatitis C, you should also get tested. Risk factors include:

• Past or current injection drug use
• History of blood transfusions or organ transplants before 1992
• Long-term hemodialysis treatment
• HIV infection
• Being born to a mother with hepatitis C
• Healthcare or public safety work where there is a risk of exposure to blood or other bodily fluids

Testing for hepatitis C is done with a blood test. The test looks for the presence of antibodies to the hepatitis C virus. If the test is positive, additional testing will be done to confirm the diagnosis and determine the extent of the infection.

Early detection and treatment of hepatitis C can prevent liver damage and the development of serious complications. If you think you may be at risk for hepatitis C, talk to your healthcare provider about getting tested.