Hepatitis C
Hepatitis C is a viral infection, which is transmitted via blood and body fluids.
About the Hepatitis C
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Individual consultation
The nurse or pharmacist will discuss requirements with you so we can tailor the advice to your individual needs:
- Your upcoming travel itinerary
- Your planned activities
- Your medical history
Expert advice
Our expert will explain the vaccines, what they protect against, the costs and any other risks. You can choose what to take up:
- Your recommended vaccines
- Your options for non-essential vaccines
- Other precautions against health risks
Treatment
You will receive your vaccinations and antimalarials during the same appointment. Some vaccines require several doses.
- First vaccine doses administered
- Yellow Fever certificate
- Booking for follow up doses
The Illness
The incubation period of acute Hepatitis C is usually between 6 and 9 weeks. Most people with the acute infection do not have symptoms. Around 60-85% of those who acquire infection with hepatitis C go on to develop chronic hepatitis (inflammation of the liver).
Many people who are chronically infected will experience nonspecific symptoms, including malaise, weakness and loss of appetite. Symptoms are worsened by high alcohol intake. Cirrhosis (scarring of the liver) develops in 20-30% of people after 20 years. Around 1-4% of patients with cirrhosis develop liver cancer and 2-5% per year develop liver failure.
Diagnosis of Hepatitis C
The best test for Hepatitis C is the Hepatitis C antigen, the part of the virus that stimulates the immune system. This can be detected from accurately from 10 days after exposure. The Hepatitis C PCR test (part of the early STD screen) also detects infection from 10 days after exposure. Antibody testing can be used from 28 days. It is advisable to have a repeat test at 3 months for definite results.