Learn the
Hep C Basics
Hepatitis C (Hep C) is a virus that affects your
liver. It spreads through blood—most often by
sharing needles or other items that come in
contact with blood.
If left untreated, Hep C can cause serious liver
damage, but many people don’t even know they
have it until years later.
The good news? Hep C is curable. With the right treatment,
most people can fully recover and live healthy lives.
Prevalence in
Delaware County
Hep C is more common than many people
think. In Pennsylvania, especially in areas like
Delaware County, the number of Hep C cases
has risen over the past decade—particularly
among people under 35.
The rise in cases is often linked to injection drug use, but
anyone who has ever had a blood transfusion before 1992,
tattoos in non-regulated settings, or shared personal care
items could be at risk
Source: Pennsylvania Department of Health and CDC Hepatitis C surveillance updates.
Hep C 101: What to Look for
Symptoms of Hep C
Many people with Hep C don’t feel sick at first. That’s why testing is so important. When symptoms do show up, they might include:
Nausea Feeling sick to your stomach or like you might throw up.
Tiredness Feeling unusually weak or worn out.
Dark urine Pee that looks darker than usual, like tea or cola.
Yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice) Skin or eyes turning yellow due to liver problems.
Belly pain Discomfort or aching on the right side of your abdomen.
If untreated, Hep C can lead to:
- Liver scarring (cirrhosis)
- Liver cancer
- Liver failure
It’s a slow-moving virus, so you might not know anything is wrong until years later.
Learn More About Hep C ComplicationsPrevention Starts with You
Stay safe, stay healthy!
- Don’t share needles or syringes Using someone else’s or letting them use yours is the fastest way Hep C spreads. Always use your own.
- Keep personal items personal Razors, toothbrushes, and nail clippers can carry tiny, invisible drops of blood. Don’t share them.
- Choose safe tattoos & piercings Go to licensed shops that use new, sterile needles and clean equipment every time.
- Practice safer sex Using condoms and avoiding contact with blood helps lower the risk of passing Hep C.
- Use gloves if helping with blood Even small amounts can carry Hep C. Protect yourself and others by staying safe.
- Get tested if you might be at risk A simple test can give peace of mind. Knowing your status helps you stay in control of your health.
YOUR HEALTH. YOUR POWER
Taking the Hep C test is a smart step toward a stronger future
- Early Care Saves Lives
- Quick & Easy Blood Test
Hep C: Treatment Works, Cure is Possible
Most cases can be beat!
Treatment usually involves taking pills once a day for 8 to 12 weeks. Side effects are mild for most people, and the cure rate is over 95%. If you’ve been living with Hep C for years, it’s not too late to get treated. And if you just found out you have it—treatment can stop the virus before it causes any damage.
Source: CDC and AASLD/IDSA Hepatitis C treatment guidance.
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