All donated blood in the United States has been tested for the hepatitis C virus since 1990. Without NAT testing, the risk is 1 per 100,000 - 1 per 150,000. There are specific diagnostic tests that can determine either acute, persistent or distant past infection. High titered hepatitis B immunoglobulin can be used for short term protection. An effective vaccine is available to provide active immunization.
Diagnostic tests are available that can determine whether an infection is acute or chronic.
Immunoglobulin has not proven to be effective. Current therapy includes alpha interferon and other antiviral drugs. Diagnostic tests are not readily available but do exist. It has an unusually high mortality rate in pregnant women. There are no readily available diagnostic tests, although these can be obtained on a research basis.