You may have contracted Hep C if you:

• were ever notified that you received blood from a donor who later tested positive for Hep C

• have ever injected illegal drugs, even if you only experimented once a long time ago

• have shared drug paraphernalia (pipes, straws, water, cookers, cotton, etc…)

• received a blood transfusion or solid organ transplant before July, 1992

• were a recipient of clotting factors made before 1987

• have ever been on long term kidney dialysis

• have evidence of liver disease (e.g. persistently abnormal ALT levels)

You may have a minimal risk if you:

• share personal items with people you are Hep C positive (razors, toothbrushes, nail clippers)

• have received a tattoo, acupunture or piercing where dirty equipment (needles, paint, etc…) have been used

• have unprotected sex where blood may be present

For more information on the risk factors visit the Hepatitis C section on the Center for Disease Control’s website at Hepatitis C or check our educational resources section.

Hep C is not spread by breast feeding or casual contact (sharing a drinking glass, coughing, or kissing)