Brits urged by NHS to test themselves for 'life-threatening' infection
The NHS is calling on Brits who are worried they may be at risk of Hepatitis C to test themselves. According to the NHS website, Hepatitis C is a virus that targets the liver. Without treatment, it can occasionally result in severe and potentially fatal liver damage over extended periods.
However, contemporary Hepatitis C treatments typically enable a complete cure of the infection, with most sufferers enjoying a standard life expectancy. Estimates suggest approximately 118,000 individuals in the UK were living with chronic hepatitis C in 2019. Infection occurs through contact with the blood of someone who carries the virus.
"Lots of people have hepatitis C without knowing it. If untreated, it can damage your liver and can sometimes lead to life-threatening conditions," the NHS stated in an Instagram post on its official page.
The post went on to say: "If you're worried you may be at risk of hepatitis C, you can order a free and confidential test online.
"Search 'hep C test NHS' to find out more information and order a test".
What are the symptoms of Hepatitis C?
Hepatitis C frequently presents no obvious symptoms until significant liver damage has occurred.
This means numerous individuals carry the infection unknowingly.
When symptoms do manifest, they may be confused with other conditions.
Symptoms can include:
Flu-like symptoms, such as muscle aches and a high temperature (fever)
Feeling tired all the time
Loss of appetite
Stomach ache
Feeling and being sick
The only way to know for certain if these symptoms are caused by hepatitis C is to get tested.
How do you contract Hepatitis C?
The hepatitis C virus typically spreads via blood-to-blood transmission.
Various methods of infection transmission include:
Sharing unsterilised needles – particularly needles used to inject recreational drugs
Sharing razors or toothbrushes
From a pregnant woman to her unborn baby
Through unprotected sex, although this is very rare
It's estimated that approximately half of the individuals who inject drugs have been infected with the virus.
Wondering how to get tested for Hepatitis C?
If you're experiencing persistent symptoms of hepatitis C or believe you may be at risk of infection, even in the absence of symptoms, it's crucial to seek medical advice. A blood test can determine whether you're infected.
The NHS recommends a home finger-prick test to check for hepatitis C, as mentioned in their Instagram post.
Testing for hepatitis C is also available at GP surgeries, sexual health clinics, genitourinary medicine (GUM) clinics, and drug treatment services.
Prompt diagnosis and treatment can help prevent or limit liver damage and ensure the infection isn't passed on to others.
Hepatitis C can be managed with medications that inhibit the virus from multiplying within the body, typically requiring several weeks of treatment.
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