World Hepatitis Day: Get a free test for Hepatitis C

Posted by: markh - Posted on:

The NHS is committed to eliminating hepatitis C as a major public health issue in England. But despite great progress there are thousands of people living with the virus without knowing about it.  

This World Hepatitis Day, we all have a part to play. We must make people aware of the ways to acquire hepatitis C and the need to get a test if you are at risk. 

There are many ways you can get hepatitis C. This includes: 

  • · Snorting or injecting recreational drugs 
  • · Having a tattoo or piercing in another country 
  • · Injecting steroids 
  • · Sharing razors or toothbrushes 
  • · From a pregnant woman to her unborn baby 
  • · If you received a blood transfusion or blood products before 1996 
  • · Through unprotected sex, although this risk is low 

To reach our goal of eliminating hepatitis C we need to get more people testing. 

If you are over the age of 18 and live in England, you can order a free and confidential home test for hepatitis C via the NHS. This is an at-home, self-sample test taking a few drops of blood from your finger. If found positive for hepatitis C, you can be treated and cured.  

This World Hepatitis Day get tested for hepatitis C: hepctest.nhs.uk/ref/whd24