Frequently asked questions about Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C is a subtype of the Hepatitis disease that is familiar to many. However, few realize the threat that is represented by this particular strain. The disease is the most common cause behind liver transplants in the world, and the more that you know about it, the better protected you are against it. In this article, we’ll do our best to answer some of the more commonly asked questions regarding the disease that is known as Hepatitis C.

Question: Is there a vaccine for Hepatitis C?

Answer: Unfortunately, the answer to this question is no. While the Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B strains of the disease can be prevented via the use of a vaccine, there has not been a vaccine created yet that will prevent Hepatitis C. For that reason, it represents a seriously significant risk that needs to be considered when involving yourself in any type of sexual situation or blood-to-blood contact with another individual.

Question: How can Hepatitis C spread from person to person?

Answer: There are many different ways in which one may spread the Hepatitis C virus. It’s a blood-borne virus, and for that reason, you need to employ caution when putting yourself into any type of situation in which your blood may come into contact with the blood of someone who may be afflicted with the disease. Ways that the disease may spread include sharing a needle with someone who is carrying the virus, as well as the sharing of other personal effects. You shouldn’t share toothbrushes or razors with someone that has the disease. Also, some have contracted the disease by means of getting a tattoo with an unclean needle. If you are getting a tattoo, be sure that the parlor that you are going to is using new, sterilized needles to perform the work. Sexual contact may also cause the disease to spread from person to person, and future mothers need to safeguard themselves against the disease, as it can travel to the child.

Question: Is Hepatitis C curable?

Answer: The answer to this question is tricky. Through the use of medications and treatments, some are able to completely eliminate the presence of the disease from their bodies. However, this works best when the disease is in its beginning stages, and it can be tough to diagnose early. There are two drugs that are commonly used to help the body to fight off the virus; they are known as interferon alpha and Ribavirin. Interferon alpha is a compound that is produced naturally within the human body, and it has potent antiviral capabilities that can assist the body in eliminating the Hepatitis C virus. Ribavirin is a synthetic compound that was created in the 1970s that was originally intended to ward off influenza, but proved to be useful in helping those with Hepatitis C. Ribavirin is an oral medication, and interferon alpha needs to be injected into the blood stream in order to work properly. With regular treatments, many find that their Hepatitis C problem can be contained, if not completely destroyed.