When to Get Tested for Hepatitis C after Exposure

How long should you wait for testing after exposure?

When a person is exposed to HCV, it takes time for the body to recognize it as a virus and begin developing antibodies to fight the infection.

Antibodies are chemicals released by the body in response to an infection. The body begins to release antibodies after the virus particles called HCV RNA are detectable.

If testing is done too soon, during the window period, an early negative result may occur. As a result, testing may need to be repeated in some people.

Those with an HCV infection will be contagious even if they have yet to develop symptoms. If someone believes that they might have contracted the virus, they should speak to a doctor to determine the need and timing for testing.

The HCV virus is transmitted through contact with the blood of an infected person. It can be spread through:

sharing of contaminated drug-injecting equipment, such as needles and syringes

sexual contact if there is a risk of contact with blood from an infected individual

pregnancy through transmitted from mother to child

use and re-use of medical equipment that has not been sterilized

needlestick injuries, involving the blood of an infected person

receiving contaminated blood from unscreened sources

sharing of personal hygiene items, such as razors and toothbrushes, if they involve an infected person's blood

having a tattoo or piercing in an unregulated practice where hygiene is poor

It is important to point out that the HCV virus cannot be spread through breast milk, food, water, hugging, kissing, or sharing food or drinks with a person who has the virus.

Who should be tested for hepatitis C?

Some people are at a higher risk for getting hepatitis C and should be tested for the disease. These people include:

those who were born between 1945 and 1965

current or former injection drug users, or those who use intranasal drugs

those who were treated prior to 1987 for a blood-clotting disorder

those who received a blood transfusion or organ transplant before July 1992

those who are receiving long-term hemodialysis

those with abnormal liver function tests or liver disease

those in healthcare or public safety professions who have been exposed to HCV from a needlestick or other injury

those with HIV, especially HIV-positive men who have unprotected sex with men

infants who were born to mothers with HCV

If a person suspects or is told that they have been exposed to someone with HCV, they should speak to their doctor about testing.

People who have been in prison or have tattoos and piercings may require HCV testing, depending on the circumstances.