Hepatitis C
Hepatitis C is caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV). It is usually a chronic (long-term) infection, but it is curable!
Hepatitis C is spread through direct blood-to-blood contact with someone who has hepatitis C. The most common way to get hepatitis C is through sharing injection drug use equipment, getting a blood transfusion prior to 1992, or having other exposure to blood. Baby boomers (born 1945–1965) also have higher rates of HCV.
Treatments are available cure hepatitis C for most people. There is NO vaccine available to prevent infection.
Additional Resources
State of Hawaii, Department of Health Disease Outbreak Control Division