Who is at risk for infection with hepatitis C?
Most recent data indicate that approximately 4 million Americans have been infected with HCV. It is estimated that up to 85% of the people infected with the hepatitis C virus each year will develop chronic infection. It has been estimated that roughly one in fifty Americans test positive for HCV, of which a majority are chronically infected. As many as 60% of those persons infected are unaware that they carry the virus.Individuals who may come in contact with infected blood, instruments or needles, such as injection drug users, health care workers or public safety workers are at risk of acquiring hepatitis C. Other potential risks include intranasal cocaine use, tattooing and body piercing. Currently, there is no vaccine available to immunize individuals against this virus.People living with HCV infected individuals should avoid sharing personal care items such as razors, toothbrushes and nail clippers to reduce the risk of exposure to infected blood.
