Some key ressources Hep C !
What is Hepatitis C?
A hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver. It can be caused by a virus (A, B, C, D, E), alcohol, certain medications or drugs. Left untreated, it can lead to complications such as liver failure or liver cancer.
How is it transmitted ?
The hepatitis C virus is transmitted by blood. It can survive up to 6 weeks outside of the body.
How does the infection progress?
The hepatitis C virus (HCV) can remain in the body for 10, 20 or even 30 years without causing any symptoms. This is known as a ‘silent infection‘.
![Illustration of the stages of liver fibrosis : Healthy liver, fibrosis, cirrosis and Liver cancer.](https://i0.wp.com/www.capahc.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Etapes-cirrhose-Eng-web.png?resize=1024%2C384&ssl=1)
There is no vaccine against Hepatitis C, but its treatment has a 97% efficacy in 8 to 12 weeks.
So, how can you protect yourself against HCV?
The virus is not transmitted by simple contact, such as a hug or a kiss. It needs an « entry point » (a cut in the skin, etc.) to enter the bloodstream. Sexual transmission is possible if blood is present during intercourse (menstruation, herpes skin lesion, anal fissure, etc.).
To prevent HCV transmission :
![To prevent transmission :
Don't share equipment used for drug use and/or preparation
Don't share personal hygiene products
Use sterile, single-use equipment for tattooing, piercing, acupuncture, etc.](https://i0.wp.com/www.capahc.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Prevention-Eng-1-mobile.png?resize=1024%2C901&ssl=1)
![Use condoms, dental dams, etc.
Get tested !](https://i0.wp.com/www.capahc.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Prevention-Eng-2-mobile.png?resize=1015%2C1024&ssl=1)
CAPAHC organizes Hep C awareness workshops in English. If you are interested, please contact us at recherche@capahc.com.
You can also download a pdf version of the content on this page