Hepatitis C

A viral liver infection spread mainly through blood. It often causes no symptoms for years but can be cured with tablets.

InfectionLiverLast updated: 21 October 2026

Quick Summary

Primary Symptoms

Usually no symptoms for many years. Later, tiredness, jaundice, tummy swelling and signs of liver damage.

Common Treatments

Direct-acting antiviral tablets taken for 8 to 12 weeks cure most people.

Risk Factors

Sharing needles or syringes, unsafe injections, past blood transfusions, tattoos with unsterile equipment.

OverviewSymptomsCausesTreatmentFAQ

Overview

Hepatitis C is caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV), which spreads through contact with infected blood. Sexual spread is less common.

Most people develop long-term infection without knowing it. Over decades it can cause cirrhosis and liver cancer. Modern tablets cure more than 95% of people, and treatment is available free in India under the National Viral Hepatitis Control Programme.

Symptoms

Often no symptoms

Many people only find out through a blood test.

Tiredness

Ongoing tiredness can be an early sign.

Jaundice

Yellow skin and eyes in later stages.

Tummy swelling

Fluid in the tummy in advanced liver disease.

Causes & Risk Factors

Biological Causes

Infection with the hepatitis C virus through blood-to-blood contact. The body usually can't clear it alone, so it becomes long-term.

Key Risk Factors

  • Unsafe injections Reused needles or syringes, including in drug use.
  • Medical procedures Unscreened blood transfusions or unsterile equipment.
  • Tattoos and piercings Done with unsterile equipment.

Management & Treatment

01. Testing

An antibody test, then a test for the virus itself, confirms active infection.

02. Antiviral tablets

A short course of direct-acting antivirals cures most people.

03. Follow-up

A blood test after treatment confirms cure. Liver checks continue if there was scarring.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a vaccine?
No, but it can be prevented by avoiding blood exposure and unsafe injections.
Can I get it again after cure?
Yes, reinfection is possible if exposed again.
Is treatment free in India?
Yes, through the National Viral Hepatitis Control Programme.

Sources and further reading

Last updated 21 October 2026. For more detail, see these trusted health organisations.