Hepatitis C: are you at risk?

Hepatitis C - Are you at risk?

Hepatitis C is a liver disease caused by the hepatitis C virus. It is spread through contact with infected blood

Up to 246,000 individuals in Canada are living with chronic hepatitis C. Nearly half may not know they are infected

Hepatitis C can cause liver damage, failure or cancer

You may be at risk if you:

1. Shared drug use equipment, even once
2. Had a tattoo or piercing done with non-sterile equipment
3. Were exposed to blood during sexual activity
4. Have lived in a region where hepatitis C is common
5. Received a blood transfusion, blood products or organ transplants before 1992
6. Received medical care where non-sterile equipment may have been used
7. Were born to a mother with hepatitis C
8. Shared personal care items (e.g. toothbrushes or razors)

Many people can live with hepatitis C for years without symptoms. A blood test is the only way to know if you have been exposed to hepatitis C

Protect yourself and others

1. Don’t share drug use equipment
2. Practice safer sex
3. Ensure sterile equipment for tattoos & piercings
4. Don't share personal care items (e.g. toothbrushes or razors)
5. If you have hepatitis C never donate blood, organs, semen or tissues

Talk to your doctor or nurse about prevention, testing and treatment