Hepatitis C screening

Hepatitis C is a virus that affects the liver. Many people do not notice symptoms when they are first infected, so the infection can go undetected for years. If it is not treated,

Hepatitis C, often called hep C, can be short-term or long-lasting. A short-term infection, called acute hepatitis C, lasts up to six months. Some people clear the virus from the body on their own during this time as their immune system fights it off. But many people do not. If the infection lasts longer than six months, it is called chronic hepatitis C. Chronic infection can harm the liver over time, often without causing any symptoms until the liver has become damaged.

Hepatitis C spreads when infected blood enters the body. This can happen in several ways, including sharing needles for injection drugs or sharing personal care items such as razors. It also can be passed from a pregnant person to the baby. Because many people do not know they have been exposed, screening helps find infections.

A blood test can find hepatitis C early, often before symptoms appear. Getting screened helps protect your liver from scarring and other damage and makes timely treatment possible. The good news is that effective treatments exist, and most people can be cured of hepatitis C.

People often have questions about when to get screened, what the test involves and what the results mean. This article explains why hepatitis C screening matters, who needs it and what to expect from testing.

Hepatitis C screening involves a blood test that looks for antibodies to the hepatitis C virus. This shows whether you have ever been exposed.

Experts generally recommend universal hepatitis C screening, though this may differ in your area. Under universal hepatitis C screening, all adults should have at least one test, regardless of symptoms or known exposure.

Hepatitis C screening may be part of your regular care. The test can be included in wellness visits or prenatal care, or you may need to ask for it. Check with your healthcare professional to see if you need screening.

Hepatitis C often does not cause symptoms at first. Many people learn they have it only after the liver has been affected. Without treatment, hepatitis C can cause scarring of the liver, called

Screening helps find hepatitis C early, so treatment can begin before serious damage happens. Modern medicines to treat infections caused by viruses, called antivirals, can cure most people. Starting treatment early gives you the best chance to protect your liver and avoid complications.

Hepatitis C screening uses a blood test called the

If your screening test is positive, it means you were exposed to the hepatitis C virus at some time. The next step is a follow-up RNA test. This is a diagnostic test that looks for the virus itself and confirms whether you have an active infection. Your healthcare team explains your results and if you need follow-up testing.

If you have had hepatitis C before or received treatment for it, the testing process is a bit different. The antibody test is not helpful in this case because antibodies can remain in your blood even after the virus is gone. Instead, a hepatitis C virus RNA test is used to check for a new or current infection. If this sounds like your situation, ask your healthcare professional which test is best for you.

In some places, a broader "hep screen" includes tests for hepatitis C and other forms of viral hepatitis, such as hepatitis A or B. A hepatitis C screening test by itself does not test for hepatitis A or B. Your healthcare professional may order additional testing if needed.

Hepatitis C screening uses a small blood sample. In many cases, this sample is taken during a regular visit or at a clinic or lab. Other options may be available in some areas.

Different types of hepatitis C testing include:

• Blood draw. A blood sample is collected and tested for hepatitis C antibodies.
• Rapid tests. Rapid finger-prick tests can give results in about 30 minutes. These tests are reliable for screening. If the result is positive, you still need a follow-up RNA test to confirm an active infection.
• Home collection kits. Home testing options are available in some areas. These kits let you collect a small blood sample and send it to a lab. Researchers are still studying the accuracy of these tests.
• Pharmacy or online ordering. You may be able to order a hepatitis C test yourself through a pharmacy or online service.

Most adults should get screened for hepatitis C at least once. Experts recommend testing even if you feel healthy or do not think you were exposed. However, screening advice can vary by location, so ask your healthcare professional what is best for you.

Hepatitis C can be passed from a pregnant person to the baby, so screening during pregnancy is advised. Babies born to a parent with hepatitis C also should be screened. In some cases, children and teens may need testing, especially if there has been a chance of blood-to-blood contact. Your child's healthcare team can explain when screening is needed and which test is best.

If you have never been tested, your healthcare professional might include hepatitis C screening with your regular blood work. Some clinics do this routinely, while others do it only if you ask or have risk factors. Your care team can tell you what is included in your visit.

Most adults need hepatitis C screening only once. But some people who are at ongoing risk may need testing more often. Your healthcare professional can recommend a schedule that fits your situation.

Regular testing may be recommended if you:

• Use injection drugs or use drugs by inhalation.
• Have certain job exposures.
• Live with
  HIV
  .
• Take preventive treatment to lower the risk of getting HIV.

You may need testing after a possible exposure. Antibodies take 2 to 6 months to develop, so an early test might be negative even if infection is present. An RNA test can find the virus earlier, within 1 to 2 weeks of exposure. Your healthcare professional can help you decide which test is right for you and when to repeat it.

Some websites have online hepatitis C risk checkers that ask about your history. These tools can help raise awareness and point out who might need to talk with a healthcare professional about screening. However, they are not a substitute for medical advice or actual testing.

How long it takes to get results can vary. Lab antibody tests usually take a few days. Lab RNA tests may take a little longer, depending on the lab. Rapid screening tests can give results in about 20 to 30 minutes. But if a rapid test is positive, you will need a follow-up RNA test to check if the infection is still active.

Hepatitis C screening is available in many places. Most people start by speaking with their primary healthcare professional. Community clinics and public health programs also play an important role.

• Primary care offices: Many people get screened at their primary care office. Your healthcare professional can order the test during a regular visit or if you have specific health concerns. Blood samples are often taken at the clinic or a nearby lab.

• Public health clinics and community health programs: Public health clinics often offer hepatitis C testing, sometimes at a reduced cost or for free. These clinics also can help with follow-up tests and refer you for treatment if your result is positive.

  In some areas, mobile testing units or community events offer hepatitis C screening at places such as pharmacies, community centers, correctional facilities or outreach sites. These events often use rapid tests, so you may get your screening results the same day.

• Hospitals and specialty clinics: Hospitals and clinics that focus on liver or infectious diseases often offer hepatitis C screening. You might be referred to one if you have certain medical conditions or risk factors. These places can do follow-up tests and start treatment if needed.

The cost of testing depends on where you live and your healthcare system. Some health systems cover hepatitis C screening for certain groups. Others may cover only part of the cost or may charge a fee. Your local clinic or health authority can explain what costs apply to you.

Here are a few things to keep in mind before your appointment:

• You do not need to fast before the test.
• You can eat and take your medicines as you usually do.
• Bring a list of your medicines, vitamins and supplements.

A small blood sample is taken from a vein. In some clinics or community settings, you might have a finger-prick test instead.

You can return to your regular activities right after the test. The spot where blood was taken might feel a little sore for a short time. Rapid tests can give you results the same day. Lab results usually take a few days. Your healthcare professional can explain what your results mean.

If you have an active hepatitis C infection, your care team guides you through the next steps. Many people see their liver health stabilize or improve after