HCV transmission

The hepatitis C virus is a blood borne virus. It is most commonly transmitted through exposure to small quantities of blood through:

• The sharing of injection equipment by people who inject drugs.
• The reuse or inadequate sterilization of medical equipment, especially syringes and needles in health care settings.
• The transfusion of unscreened blood and blood products.
• Tattooing and piercing with inadequately sterilized equipment.
• Household risks when living with persons with HCV – sharing razors, tooth brushes, nail clippers other things coming in contact with blood.

HCV can also be transmitted sexually and can be passed from a mother who is living with the virus to her baby however, these modes of transmission are much less common.