What is Hepatitis C?

Hepatitis C is a type of hepatitis virus which means it causes the liver to become sore and swollen (inflamed) which can result in further liver disease.

The Hepatitis C Virus virus is also referred to as HCV for short. It was first identified in 1989 and a test for Hepatitis C has been available since 1991. It is a blood borne virus which means infection can occur if blood carrying the virus gets into your blood stream. This is referred to as ‘blood to blood' contact.

What most people don't realise is that hepatitis C is not just one virus. It is a family of similar viruses or strains called genotypes.

How Common is Hepatitis C?

If you are living with hepatitis C, it may help to know you are not alone. There are up to 200 million people world wide and up to 600,000 individuals* in the UK thought to be living with hepatitis C. These are estimates based on the data collected by experts so far but the real figure is not known.

Other European countries have similar or higher levels of infection. Hepatitis C is a national and international challenge to healthcare and prevention. It is a major concern for anyone writing or delivering health or prevention strategies in the UK, Europe and beyond.