How can I avoid hepatitis C?

There is no vaccine available to protect against hepatitis C. As the hepatitis C virus is very different from the hepatitis A and hepatitis B viruses, the hepatitis A and B vaccines do not work against the hepatitis C virus.

Hepatitis C is not spread through close contact such as touching, hugging or kissing. Nor is it spread by coughing or sneezing or by sharing food and drink. However, people who have hepatitis C should not share household items that could cause bleeding, such as razors and toothbrushes.

There are simple ways to reduce your risk of contracting hepatitis C. The best option is to learn about how hepatitis C is spread and to avoid situations where you feel that you are more at risk. 

How is it passed on?

The hepatitis C virus can be destroyed using sterilisation techniques, but this has to be done properly. To reduce the risk of contracting hepatitis C through poor hygiene practices, carefully think about the situations when you know there is a chance your skin could be punctured (for example, tattoo or piercing). If something looks dirty or if you think someone has used a needle before, walk away and find somewhere you know is safe. 

Always cover open wounds to reduce your risk of being exposed to infected blood.

If you have to handle blood or blood products, wear gloves and take care with sharps (for example, needles and syringes). Do not handle blood with bare skin as you may have small cuts or scratches that you can’t see. 

Pre-prepared blood and blood products for administration by healthcare professionals are now routinely screened for the hepatitis C virus in most countries and also go through a procedure to inactivate the virus where appropriate.