Bloodborne HIV AIDS Page 6

Hepatitis C

Page 6

Hepatitis C is another common bloodborne pathogen to be aware of. It is a contagious virus that causes inflammation of the liver. Previously the virus was known as “non A-non B” but is now referred to as hepatitis C or HCV. This particular virus has been found worldwide, making it very common. The most common way that it is transferred is via parenteral exposure to blood from an infected individual. Other common transmission events are receiving a blood transfusion and sharing intravenous drug needles. Other sources can be needle stick injuries, sharing razors and toothbrushes, sexual contact, and when a child is born to an infected hepatitis C mother.

Hepatitis C Symptoms

Like hepatitis B, people newly infected with hepatitis C often show no symptoms. If symptoms are present, they include the following common attributes:

Fever
Fatigue
Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
Nausea or vomiting

Abdominal pain
Dark urine
Clay-colored bowel movements
Loss of appetite

Hepatitis C is similar to hepatitis B where patients may have little to no signs or symptoms after contracting the disease. About one in every four hepatitis C patients will experience jaundice and some patients experience loss of appetite and a frequent feeling of tiredness. In most cases the HCV can still be found in the blood six months or more after the start of an acute infection. Like HBV, a person’s immune system can fight off the virus and this usually occurs within 6 months of becoming infected, causing an acute infection. Chronic infection is when the virus is still found in the blood after 6 months after contracting the disease which is the most common occurrence. After about one year if the virus is still in the blood it is very unlikely to disappear.

Nearly 20% of hepatitis C carriers develop cirrhosis of the liver which is scarring of the liver after the virus damages a large percentage of liver cells. In some patients’ cirrhosis develops after a long period, sometimes up to 20 years. In most cases (4 out of every 5 patients) cirrhosis does not develop and instead a mild chronic liver infection called chronic persistent hepatitis will occur. This will be something that the patient will die with but will not be the cause of death.

Hepatitis C patients who experience challenges and do not recover as quickly as expected are typically encouraged to work with a medical specialist to help improve symptoms. Many steps that help the individual include eating a low fat, balanced diet, limiting alcohol intake, or avoiding alcohol altogether, and avoiding any medication that may cause liver damage. Some patients who experience challenges with hepatitis C may be prescribed interferon alpha which is an engineering natural body protein that can help to improve chronic hepatitis C symptoms. Another possible treatment is called ribavirin and is often used in conjunction with interferon. Some patients seek alternative treatment options including milk thistle or other herbs. Patients should consult their physician for the best course of treatment.

How to prevent hepatitis C:

Don’t share needles, toothbrushes, razors, or other items that may have human blood on them
Protected sex with use of a condom
Practice universal protection for health-care and public safety workers

There is no vaccine for hepatitis C, so protecting yourself from the virus in the first place is your only prevention option.

Bloodborne Pathogens and HIV/AIDS Training for Child Care Professionals

Hepatitis C

Page 6

Hepatitis C Symptoms

Course Navigation Menu