Some key ressources Hep C !

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.

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. Use condoms, dental dams, etc. Get tested !
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.
Use condoms, dental dams, etc. Get tested !

CAPAHC organizes Hep C awareness workshops in English. If you are interested, please contact us at recherche@capahc.com.

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