Is there a cure for hepatitis C?

A hepatitis C antibody test can show that your immune system has encountered the virus, but it does not show whether the virus is still present. A follow-up test looks for current virus in the blood. Treatment decisions may also take account of liver health, other medicines, pregnancy, and previous treatment.

Clearing the virus does not protect someone from catching hepatitis C again. It also does not immediately reverse liver scarring that developed before treatment. Persistent tiredness may improve for some people, although fatigue can have other causes.

Book a medical assessment if a screening test is positive or if you have had a possible blood exposure. Do not stop prescribed medicines or start supplements for the liver without discussing them with a clinician. Avoid sharing needles, razors, toothbrushes, or anything that may carry blood, and cover cuts carefully.

A [GP Consultation](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/gp-consultation/) can coordinate confirmation, liver assessment, and referral when needed. A [Liver Function Test](/treatments/diagnostics-and-screening/liver-function-test/) may be included, but it is not the same as a test for the virus.

Arrange prompt care for yellowing of the skin or eyes, confusion, vomiting blood, black stools, severe abdominal swelling, or rapidly worsening illness. Contact a clinician soon after a positive test even if you feel well, because hepatitis C can remain quiet while liver injury develops.

Ask whether your result shows antibodies or current virus, which treatment is suitable, how liver health will be checked, what interactions to avoid, and how follow-up will confirm that treatment worked.