How long is a person able to spread hepatitis C?
Some people carry the virus in their bloodstream and may remain contagious for years. How is hepatitis C diagnosed? Diagnosis depends on demonstration of antibody to the hepatitis C virus (anti-HCV) using a recently developed second-generation assay (EIA), which has been established as a screening test for blood donors. What is the treatment for this illness? There is no special medicines or antibiotics that can be used to treat a person once the symptoms appear. Generally, bed rest is all that is needed. How can the spread of hepatitis C be prevented? People who have had hepatitis C should remain aware that their blood and possibly other body fluids are potentially ineffective. Care should be taken to avoid blood exposure to others by sharing toothbrushes, razors, needles, etc. In addition, infected people must not donate blood and should inform their dental or medical care providers so that proper precautions can be followed. This fact sheet is for informational purposes only. It sho
