Is hepatitis C contagious?

Transmission requires a route for infected blood to enter the body. Examples can include sharing needles or other injecting equipment, unsterile equipment that breaks the skin, or sharing personal items that may carry blood, such as razors or toothbrushes. A person can carry the virus without feeling unwell.

Hugging, holding hands, sharing food, coughing or sitting near someone does not spread hepatitis C. Fatigue may occur in someone with the infection, but it cannot identify how a person became infected.

Do not share needles, razors, toothbrushes or equipment that may have blood on it. Cover cuts, clean blood spills safely and use appropriately sterile equipment for procedures that pierce the skin. Arrange a GP consultation after a possible blood exposure so testing and follow-up can be discussed.

A liver function test may be part of an assessment, but specific blood testing is needed to check for hepatitis C infection.

Contact a clinician promptly after a possible blood exposure, even if you feel well. Seek urgent help for confusion, vomiting blood, black stools, severe abdominal swelling or rapidly worsening yellow skin or eyes, because these can indicate serious liver problems.

Ask which tests are appropriate after an exposure, when testing should be repeated, how to protect others from blood contact, and whether your medicines need review. Ask for clear advice about household items and wound care.