First of all, is important to say that a Hep C viral infection does not easily spread from one person to another. Research has show that the most likely cause of transmission is blood to blood contact, thus the risk of becoming infected without first having contact with infected blood is extremely low.
You can take the following prevention measures to minimize the risk of becoming infected:
- Never share injection needles with anyone.
- If you are at risk of being exposed to another person’s blood or open wound, always use latex gloves.
- Follow safe sex practices that will keep you from becoming in contact with another person’s blood. Consider using condoms.
- If you want to get a tattoo or receive acupuncture treatment be sure that the needles that are used for such purposes are new and disposable. Make sure that the new needles are opened in front of you to see.
- If you live with a person that is diagnosed with Hep C, do not share toothbrushes or razors.
Please be aware that until now there are no approved vaccines for the prevention of Hepatitis C.
If you are HIV positive you must use extreme cautionary measures due to the fact that this condition makes you more vulnerable to becoming infected with Hep C.
