Strains of Hep C

We tend to talk about hepatitis C as if it is just one virus but it is not. Scientists have found different strains of hepatitis C which are called genotypes. There are very small differences between each strain but we can test to find out which genotype of hepatitis C you have in your body.

Hepatitis C is therefore not just one virus but a family of viruses. People are usually only infected with one genotype of hepatitis C but occasionally people are found that have more than one type.

What are the genotypes called?

There are six major genotypes for hepatitis C which are given a number from 1 through to 6. A Genotype Test is available to find out which genotype you have.

What are sub groups?

Each strain (genotype) also has a number of variations called sub groups which are given a letter 'a', 'b', 'c' and so forth. You may hear people say they have genotype 1a, 2b or 2c for example. However, we won't go into sub-groups in any more detail because most people don't know or need to bother about them.

Is my genotype important?

There is not much information about how the genotype affects what hepatitis C does to your body but it is very important when it comes to treatment. The genotype (strain) affects which anti-viral treatment course you are given. Treatment is also more successful for some genotypes than others. A Genotype Test is therefore done to help plan your anti-viral treatment to determine:

• The length of antiviral treatment you need
• How to monitor treatment progress and how well you are responding to treatment
• How to explain and advise you throughout the treatment process