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What are the main routes of transmission for Hepatitis C?

Learn about the different routes of transmission for Hepatitis C and what you can do to reduce the risk by osberthicks
Estimated reading time: 3 min 11 sec
What are the main routes of transmission for Hepatitis C?

Hepatitis C is a viral infection that affects the liver. The virus can cause acute and chronic hepatitis C, leading to severe liver damage.

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that over 71 million people globally are living with chronic hepatitis C. The disease can be transmitted through several routes, making it a significant public health concern.

Blood transfusion

Blood transfusion is a common mode of transmitting hepatitis C. Before 1992, blood screening tests were not available; hence infected blood could be transfused to a person requiring blood transfusion, leading to the transmission of hepatitis C.

However, since the introduction of universal blood screening tests in 1992, the risk of hepatitis C transmission through blood transfusion has significantly reduced. The screening tests such as Nucleic Acid Testing (NAT) and the Hepatitis C Antibody test are more sensitive and specific, making it easier to detect the virus and prevent transmission.

Sharing of needles and syringes

Sharing of injection equipment, including needles, syringes, and spoons, is a common route of transmission of hepatitis C.

The virus can survive on surfaces for some time and can be easily transmitted through blood contact with contaminated injection equipment. This route of transmission is common among people who inject drugs, especially those who share injection equipment. WHO estimates that more than 23% of people who inject drugs globally are living with hepatitis C.

Medical procedures and surgeries

Inadequate infection control practices among healthcare providers may lead to transmission of hepatitis C during various medical procedures and surgeries.

Medical procedures that require injection equipment, such as dialysis, can also lead to hepatitis C transmission if the equipment is contaminated. People who receive tattoos or piercings using unsterilized equipment may also contract hepatitis C.

Sexual transmission

Sexual transmission of hepatitis C remains controversial. The virus may be transmitted sexually, but the risk is low, especially among monogamous couples.

However, high-risk sexual behavior, such as having multiple partners, unprotected sex, and sexually transmitted infections (STIs), may increase the risk of hepatitis C transmission.

Related Article How is Hepatitis C transmitted? How is Hepatitis C transmitted?

Mother to child transmission

The risk of mother to child transmission of hepatitis C is low, estimated at about 5%. However, mothers living with hepatitis C can reduce the risk of transmission by avoiding breastfeeding if they have lesions on the nipples or cracks on the skin.

Mothers with higher viral loads may also have a higher risk of transmitting the virus to their newborns. Proper prenatal care, such as early diagnosis and treatment, can significantly reduce the risk of transmission.

Occupational exposure

Occupational exposure to infected blood and equipment, such as needlestick injuries, may also lead to hepatitis C transmission.

Healthcare workers, laboratory technicians, and other professionals may be at risk when handling infected blood samples and equipment. Proper use of personal protective equipment, such as gloves and face masks, can reduce the risk of occupational exposure.

Sharing personal items

Sharing personal items, such as razors, toothbrushes, and nail clippers, may also lead to hepatitis C transmission. This is because of the possibility of blood contact with these items, leading to virus transmission.

While the risk of transmission through this mode is low, it is advisable not to share personal items to reduce the chances of infection.

Vertical transmission

Vertical transmission is the transmission of the virus from an infected mother to her unborn child. This can occur during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding. The risk of vertical transmission increases with a high maternal viral load.

Proper prenatal care, including early diagnosis and treatment, can reduce the risk of vertical transmission.

Unsterilized instruments

Unsterilized instruments, including needles, syringes, and surgical equipment, may also lead to hepatitis C transmission.

The virus can survive on surfaces for some time and can be transmitted from contaminated equipment to a person receiving medical care. Proper sterilization of equipment can reduce the risk of transmission during medical procedures and surgeries.

Disclaimer: This article serves as general information and should not be considered medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance. Individual circumstances may vary.

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