Whether you've been living with hepatitis C, you've just been diagnosed, or you're caring for someone who has, the knowledge you gain is the first step toward making decisions that can positively influence your health and well-being.  Get the facts, Get tested if you are at risk, find a provider that knows about Hep C and communicate regularly. 

Other things to think about:

• Do not shoot drugs; if you shoot drugs, stop and get into a treatment program; if you can't stop, never share needles, syringes, water, or "works", and get vaccinated against hepatitis A & B

• Do not share personal care items that might have blood on them (razors, toothbrushes)

• If you are a health care or public safety worker, always follow routine barrier precautions and safely handle needles and other sharps; get vaccinated against hepatitis B

• HCV can be spread by sex, but this is rare. If you are having sex with more than one steady sex partner, use latex condoms* correctly and every time to prevent the spread of sexually transmitted diseases. You should also get vaccinated against hepatitis B

• If you are HCV positive, do not donate blood, organs, or tissue