40% of Those with Hepatitis C are Unaware of Their Status: Observe World Hepatitis Day by Getting Tested

COLUMBIA, S.C. — Monday, July 28, marks World Hepatitis Day, and the South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) is encouraging everyone to take part in this observance by testing for the virus at a local DPH clinic.

Hepatitis C is often called the “silent” infection, as many individuals may live for years without exhibiting symptoms, even while liver damage progresses. It’s estimated that nearly 40% of those with hepatitis C don’t know they have it. Furthermore, many diagnosed are unaware that treatment has become fast, simple, and effective. At-risk groups, as pointed out by the DPH, include:

• Individuals born between 1945 and 1965
• Those who have injected drugs, even once
• People with specific healthcare-related or blood exposure histories

This virus is transmitted when blood from an infected person, even tiny amounts, enters another person’s body. To help prevent this, consider the following precautions:

• Avoid sharing needles, razors, or toothbrushes.
• Practice safe injection and tattooing procedures (DPH has a Find-A-Facility application that lists licensed tattoo facilities).
• Use barrier protections during sex, especially if you or your partner have had multiple partners or have a known infection.
• Ensure blood products and medical procedures are conducted safely by licensed providers.

Treatment for hepatitis C is straightforward and boasts a 95% effectiveness rate. Many can be cured within just 8 to 12 weeks using oral medications, which is a significant change from the older interferon therapies that required painful injections.

Dr. Linda Bell, State Epidemiologist, noted, “Hepatitis C treatment has advanced significantly since the 1990s. With the newer direct-acting antiviral drugs, about 95% of those with hepatitis C can be cured in about three months with a daily pill and few side effects. This is important progress, and everyone should find out their hepatitis C status.”

According to the DPH, around 1,900 cases of hepatitis C were diagnosed in South Carolina in 2024, with Richland, Greenville, and Horry counties reporting the highest numbers.

If you think you might be at risk or are unsure about your hepatitis C status, testing is key. If you test positive, seek treatment and aim for a cure. Preventing the complications associated with hepatitis C begins with awareness.

To schedule a hepatitis C test at a DPH public health clinic near you, you can call 1-855-472-3432.