Hepatitis is the inflammation of the liver, caused by alcohol and drug use, bacteria, or toxins. Hepatitis C is a contagious virus that also causes liver infection. The Hepatitis C virus can cause liver disease that ranges from an acute infection to a lifelong chronic condition. Of the Hepatitis family, Hepatitis C is the most severe form.

The Hepatitis C virus can be transmitted at birth from an infected mother, by sharing contaminated needles, needlestick injuries, or by having direct contact with blood, semen, or sores of an infected person. People who are at an increased risk for this virus and other bloodborne pathogens include people who share needles and work in a healthcare setting. In the United States, drug related needle sharing activities is the most common way Hepatitis C is spread. 75%-85% of people who are infected with Hepatitis C will develop a chronic infection. The symptoms of Hepatitis C is similar to Hepatitis B; infected people can show no symptoms to flu like symptoms. People who have undiagnosed chronic Hepatitis C can develop serious liver conditions such as liver cirrhosis, liver failure, or liver cancer, until Hepatitis C is detected. Blood analysis and other tests by a healthcare professional is a way to diagnose this disease.

For a listing of Multi-Clean liquid disinfectants or disinfecting wipes that are effective on Hepatitis C, please visit Multi-Clean’s Infection Control webpage.

For more information about Hepatitis, check out Multi-Clean’s Infection Control website or the CDC website.