Preventing Hepatitis C
The hepatitis C virus (HCV) is spread, primarily, through contact with infected blood.
To prevent becoming infected with hepatitis C:
- Do not inject illicit drugs, especially with shared needles. Seek help to stop using drugs.
- Do not have sex with partners who have sexually transmitted diseases.
- Practice safe sex (using latex condoms) or abstain from sex.
- Limit your number of sexual partners.
- Avoid sharing personal hygiene products that might have blood on them, such as:
- razors
- toothbrushes
- nail clippers
- pierced earrings
- Avoid handling items that may be contaminated by HCV-infected blood.
- Donate your own blood before elective surgery for use if you need a blood transfusion.
If you have hepatitis C
If you have hepatitis C, you can prevent the spread of your infection by:
- Telling your dentist and doctors before receiving checkups or treatment.
- Getting both hepatitis A and hepatitis B vaccinations.
- Never donating blood or organs for transplant.
To schedule an appointment, or for more information, call the UPMC Liver Cancer Center, toll-free, at 1-855-74-LIVER or complete our contact form now.