According to the “Burden of Disease Study” carried out by Hyder and Morrow in 2001, chronic liver diseases are the 5th commonest cause of premature mortality in Pakistan and the 11th commonest cause of disabilities (102). Although between 75- 85% of infections move on to chronic hepatitis C, the progress may be slow. Hence most people who are infected do not experience symptoms and are unaware of their infection. They are not able to benefit from available treatment that may clear them of the virus. They may also unknowingly spread the virus to others. Currently, there is no vaccine to prevent HCV infection. Effective but costly treatment is available. The high frequency and its contribution to premature mortality and disability call for massive awareness campaigns to combat the menace of this infectious disease. Conclusions The frequency of hepatitis C infection in Pakistan is high (4.7%), varying from 0.4% - 33.7%, indicating pockets of infections. 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