Telling others

If you have been diagnosed with hepatitis C, there are several people that you may need to consider telling about your condition.

Doctor

Your doctor will need to know that you have hepatitis C as this will affect any treatment they may wish to give you. Many drugs can damage the liver and may not be suitable for somebody with hepatitis C. Similarly, herbal remedies that are reported to be good for the liver have not been proven in clinical practice and could actually cause further liver damage under some circumstances, especially if used alongside other medical conditions or drugs. As herbal remedies are not regulated and can vary in composition and formulation, it is advised that you discuss their use with a doctor before taking them. 

Family and friends

It is up to you whether you choose to tell your family and friends that you have hepatitis C, but it is advisable to have a good support system in place. Even if you decide not to tell them, you should be careful not to expose them to your blood, and as such avoid the risk of them catching the virus. 

Work

Depending on your occupation, it is very unlikely that you are required contractually or by law to tell your employer that you have hepatitis C. However, these rules may vary between countries and you could check with your local patient group. It is particularly important to check these rules if you work in an environment where it is possible that your colleagues may come into contact with your blood (for example, if you use heavy machinery with the risk of injury) as you may need to take extra precautions to protect them.

Insurance companies

The rules about insurance may vary between countries. If you are taking out a new policy, it is possible you may have to tell your insurance company that you have hepatitis C. You may not have to tell them if you already have a policy but it is worth checking local rules and the wording of your policy. In some cases, local support groups may be able to offer help and advice. 

People at risk of transmission

If there is any chance that another person has/will come into contact with your blood, you should let them know that you have hepatitis C. This is so that they can chose whether to get tested themselves, and also take precautions not to pass the virus on to anybody else. Such people may be dentists, nurses taking blood samples, an acupuncturist or tattoo artist. If you are concerned, it is better to talk to your doctor who should be able to help you decide who you need to contact.