The hepatitis C virus is one of several viruses that can cause inflammation of the liver (known as hepatitis). Hepatitis C is a blood-borne virus.
Transmission of hepatitis C may only occur when the blood of an infected person enters the bloodstream of another person. Sharing recreational drug injecting needles and/or equipment is the most common way of becoming infected in Australia. Around 80% of hepatitis C infections in Australia have resulted from the sharing and re-using of injecting needles and/or equipment.
Effective treatments for hepatitis C are available and may prevent serious liver damage from happening.
Currently there is no vaccination against hepatitis C anywhere in the world.
Organisations that specialise in this area of reproductive and/or sexual health
- Visit Hepatitis Victoria
Where to get more information, support or advice
- Contact your local doctor (GP)
- Contact Family Planning Victoria's clinics