Hepatitis C

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Key Points:

• Getting tested with a simple blood test is the only way to know if you have hepatitis C.
• You should get tested for hepatitis C at least once in your life, but some people may need periodic testing.
• If you find out you have hepatitis C, talk to your health care provider about getting cured.
• Hepatitis C treatment is virtually free for all Michigan Medicaid and Healthy Michigan Plan beneficiaries. Find an HCV treatment provider and learn more at Michigan.gov/WeTreatHepC.

Hepatitis C is a liver disease caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV). It spreads when blood infected with HCV - even microscopic amounts - enters the body of someone who is not infected. Infection can range from mild (lasting a few weeks) to a serious, chronic illness. You can have hepatitis C even if you do not look or feel sick.

Getting tested is the only way to know if you have hepatitis C. Untreated, hepatitis C infection can cause serious liver problems, including scarring and cancer.

Hepatitis C is curable. There is no vaccine to prevent hepatitis C; however, there are oral medications (pills) that can cure people in only 8-12 weeks with few side effects. 

MDHHS Telehealth HCV Treatment Program Find an HCV Treatment Provider

Hepatitis C Disease Intervention Specialist (DIS)