Hepatitis C Infections Hit 15-Year High

According to a government report, new hepatitis C infections have nearly tripled over the last five years in the United States, reaching a 15-year high. Hepatitis C is a virus that is spread by contact with contaminated blood, such as sharing needles, unsterile tattoo equipment, or through unprotected sex. Over the long term, the condition can result in cirrhosis of the liver, which can require a transplant. Health officials for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) note the highest number of new hepatitis C infections were among 20-29 year olds, mostly as a result of injecting drugs linked to the current opioid epidemic. The CDC’s Dr. Jonathan Mermin adds, “We must reach the hardest-hit communities with a range of prevention and treatment services that can diagnose people with hepatitis C and link them to treatment. This wide range of services can also prevent the misuse of prescription drugs and ultimately stop drug use—which can also prevent others from getting hepatitis C in the first place.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, May 2017