Hepatitis C Prevention: Understanding Risks & Avoiding Transmission

Hepatitis C (known in medical shorthand as "hep C") is a virus that causes the liver to swell. People get hep C by having contact with contaminated blood. Currently, there is no cure for hepatitis C, but there are things people can do to avoid contracting hep C.

Instructions

How to avoid hepatitis C

• 1

  Avoid contact with blood or blood products as much as possible. This is especially pertinent if you are a health-care worker.

• 2

  Don't use illegal drugs, especially drugs that are taken intravenously. Hepatitis C can be spread by sharing contaminated needles.

• 3

  Practice safe sex. Use a condom during sex and know the sexual history of any sex partners.

• 4

  Get tattoos and piercings from a reputable establishment that practices good sterile procedures. Don't get a tattoo or body piercing from someone who is unlicensed, as they may not properly sterilize equipment.

• 5

  Avoid sharing common items, such as a razor or toothbrush, with someone who has hep C.