What Is Hepatitis C?

Hepatitis C is a viral infection that affects the liver, caused by various strains of the Hepatitis C virus (HCV). In the UK, genotypes 1 and 3 are the most common. It’s estimated that over 210,000 people in the UK are living with chronic Hepatitis C, with many more undiagnosed due to a lack of early symptoms.

How Is Hepatitis C Transmitted?

Hepatitis C spreads primarily through blood-to-blood contact, but it can also be passed on through certain types of sexual activity. Common transmission routes include:

• Unprotected vaginal, anal, or oral sex, particularly where blood is present

• Sharing needles when injecting drugs – nearly 45% of intravenous drug users carry HCV

• Non-sterile tattoo or piercing equipment

• Sharing personal items like razors or toothbrushes

• Needle stick injuries (e.g., healthcare settings)

Other possible risks include:

• Medical procedures abroad or in places with poor hygiene standards

• Blood transfusions before 1991 in the UK

• Mother-to-baby transmission during pregnancy or childbirth

While sexual transmission is rare in long-term heterosexual relationships, men who have sex with men (MSM) are at increased risk.

What Are the Symptoms of Hepatitis C?

Hepatitis C is often called a “silent infection” because most people show no symptoms during the early stages. When symptoms do appear, they may include:

• Persistent tiredness or fatigue

• Muscle and joint pain

• Digestive issues (nausea, bloating)

• Brain fog or difficulty concentrating

These symptoms can be mild or mistaken for other conditions. That’s why regular testing is essential, especially if you’ve been exposed to any risk factors.

Did You Know?

Up to 80% of people with acute Hepatitis C show no symptoms at all.

How Can Hepatitis C Be Tested?

Testing for Hepatitis C at ManaPlus is simple, quick, and highly accurate. We require just a small blood sample, which can also be used to test for other infections like HIV, Hepatitis B, or part of our Early Detection or Platinum Screens.

• Results available within 1 working day after sample receipt

• Instant testing available at select clinics with results in just 20 minutes

What Are the Risks of Untreated Hepatitis C?

If not diagnosed and managed, Hepatitis C can lead to long-term liver damage. Around 75% of people develop chronic Hepatitis C, which can remain unnoticed for years until liver damage becomes severe.

Complications include:

• Ongoing fatigue and low energy

• Liver cirrhosis (in 30% of cases within 20 years)

• Liver failure or liver cancer

• Increased risk of other infections such as HIV

Early testing and monitoring can prevent most of these complications with the right treatment plan. 

What If I Test Positive for Hepatitis C?

The good news is that Hepatitis C is curable in over 90% of cases with modern antiviral treatments. Even when a full cure isn’t possible, treatment significantly reduces liver inflammation and damage.

If you test positive:

• You’ll be referred to a specialist for further tests and treatment options

• In some cases, the immune system may clear the virus without treatment, but close monitoring is essential

• Antiviral medications are used to eliminate or suppress the virus

• Most people tolerate treatment well, and side effects are minimal with newer medications

You can continue care with your ManaPlus doctor or be referred to your GP or a hospital liver specialist for ongoing support and monitoring.

Book Your Hepatitis C Test Today

At ManaPlus, we make STI testing easy, confidential, and accurate. Whether you prefer to visit a clinic or use a discreet home test kit, we’ll provide the results and support you need to take control of your health.

Worried about Hepatitis C? Book your test now and take the first step towards peace of mind.

Why Choose ManaPlus.co.uk?

Discreet and confidential testing

Fast, accurate results

Comprehensive medical support

Accessible home testing options

Partnerships with UK health experts

Your health and peace of mind are our mission. If you need support following a positive STI result, contact ManaPlus.co.uk today for expert advice, treatment, and ongoing care.