Overview
The Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is an infection that attaches to liver cells and causes inflammation and liver damage. White blood cells that attempt to destroy the virus end up killing healthy liver cells. The virus clears up in 30% of people within six months without treatment, and many people in this stage may not appear sick or show symptoms that can be attributed to other conditions. 70% of people develop chronic hepatitis, which can result in cirrhosis, liver failure, and liver cancer. If detected early and treated with direct-acting antiviral (DAA) pills, over 95% of people are able to be fully cured. HCV is considered to be 10 times more infectious than HIV, as it can survive on surfaces or syringes for weeks.
Up to 80% of cases are the result of sharing needles, cookers, or water containers between injection drug users. One of the biggest touted benefits of syringe service programs (SSPs) is cutting down on the transmission of HCV while providing an entry point to testing and treatment for those concerned about exposure.