The anti-HCV test can identify infected persons as early as 5 to 8 weeks after exposure to the virus. There are three types of interferon used for treating chronic HCV and also a combination of ribavirin and interferon. There may be considerable side-effects from the combination therapy. Almost half of the liver transplants in the U.S. are performed for hepatitis C liver failure. Precautions should be taken when handling anything that could have been contaminated with blood from an infected HCV person such as razors, scissors, tooth brushes, nail files, clippers and tampons.
Safe sex is recommended.
National Center for Infectious Diseases Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Atlanta, Georgia 30333. The text presented on these pages is for your information only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. It may not represent your true individual medical situation. Do not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease without consulting a qualified healthcare provider.