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Hep C + HIV

Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C (HCV) is a blood-borne virus that causes inflammation of the liver.

There are approximately 12 different strains of the hepatitis C virus which are called genotypes. The most common genotypes in Australia are one, two and three. If you get one genotype of hepatitis C you can be re-infected with any of the others. Gay men with HIV are at greater risk of getting hepatitis C. An estimated 13% of people with HIV in Australia also have hepatitis C which is called co-infection.

There's significant evidence that indicates HIV makes hepatitis C more severe, with faster progression of liver disease. Hepatitis C can be passed on by sharing injecting equipment that has come into contact with infected blood (including spoons, tourniquets, filters) as well as unsterile tattooing, body piercing or medical procedures. It can also be passed on through anal sex where microscopic particles of blood can be transmitted on fingers, cocks, fists and toys. Shared personal items, such as razors, toothbrushes and nail scissors can also transmit hepatitis C.

25% of people with hepatitis C can clear the virus from their body without treatment. According to HIV clinicians, this is probably lower in people co-infected with HIV and is estimated to be around (15%). Some people will clear the virus after successful treatment. The rate of success depends upon the strain or genotype of hepatitis C.

There is currently no vaccination against hepatitis C.