According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 71 million people worldwide live with chronic hepatitis C. The virus is blood-borne and can cause serious liver problems, including cirrhosis and liver cancer.

Fortunately, there are steps you can take to protect yourself from hepatitis C.

Know Your Risk Factors

One of the best ways to protect yourself from hepatitis C is to become familiar with the various risk factors. These include:.

Injection drug use.
Having sex with someone who is infected.
Receiving a blood transfusion or organ transplant before 1992.
Working in healthcare and being exposed to blood or bodily fluids.
Being born to a mother who has hepatitis C.

Practice Safe Sex

While hepatitis C is primarily transmitted through blood-to-blood contact, there is still a risk of infection through sexual activity. Use a condom during sex to reduce your risk of contracting or spreading the virus.

If you have multiple sexual partners, get tested regularly for hepatitis C and other sexually transmitted infections.

Injection drug use is one of the leading causes of hepatitis C transmission. Avoid sharing needles and other injection equipment, including spoons, filters, and water. If you are an injection drug user, consider getting help to quit.

Many cities offer free or low-cost substance abuse treatment programs.

Get Vaccinated

There is currently no vaccine for hepatitis C. However, vaccines are available for hepatitis A and B. These viruses can cause similar symptoms and can also lead to liver damage.

Talk to your healthcare provider about getting vaccinated for hepatitis A and B to reduce your overall risk of liver disease.

Practice Good Hygiene

Hepatitis C can survive outside the body for up to three weeks. It’s important to practice good hygiene to avoid coming into contact with contaminated surfaces.

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This includes washing your hands regularly with soap and warm water, especially after using the bathroom and before preparing or eating food. Avoid sharing personal items such as razors, toothbrushes, and nail clippers, which can also be sources of infection.

Be Careful When Getting Tattoos or Piercings

If you’re considering getting a tattoo or piercing, make sure the facility follows proper sanitation procedures.

The equipment should be sterilized between uses, and the artist should use new, disposable needles and other equipment for each customer. Ask to see the facility’s license, and make sure it is up-to-date.

Get Tested

If you think you may have been exposed to hepatitis C, it’s important to get tested. The virus can take several weeks or even months to show up in a blood test. Your healthcare provider can perform a simple blood test to check for the virus.

If you test positive, your provider can discuss treatment options and help you manage the condition.

Avoid Alcohol and Tobacco

Alcohol and tobacco can both contribute to liver damage and make hepatitis C worse. If you have hepatitis C, avoid drinking alcohol and smoking cigarettes.

If you’re having trouble quitting, talk to your healthcare provider about resources and support available to help you quit.

Eat a Healthy Diet

Eating a healthy diet can help keep your liver healthy and reduce your risk of liver damage from hepatitis C.

Focus on foods that are high in antioxidants, such as fruits and vegetables, and avoid processed foods and foods high in sugar and saturated fat. Talk to your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian for guidance on healthy eating.

Conclusion

Protecting yourself from hepatitis C requires a combination of knowledge, awareness, and healthy habits. By following these simple steps, you can reduce your risk of infection and keep your liver healthy.