ClickCease
Schedule Appointment
Contact Us

Hepatitis C FAQs

Understanding Hepatitis C

Answers to common questions about diagnosis, treatment options, and long-term health.

Hepatitis C (HCV) is a bloodborne virus that infects the liver. Many people have no symptoms at first, but untreated infection can become chronic and, over time, may lead to scarring (cirrhosis), liver failure, or liver cancer.

The good news: Hepatitis C is highly curable today. Modern direct-acting antiviral (DAA) medications can cure more than 95% of cases—often with a simple 8–12 week course of oral treatment.

If you’re in Florida and want clarity, we can help you with no-cost screening, confirmatory testing when needed, and treatment navigation—so you understand your results, your timeline, and your next steps without judgment.

Hepatitis C spreads mainly through blood-to-blood contact with an infected person. Common ways include:

  • Sharing needles/syringes or injection equipment (most common)

  • Needlesticks or blood exposure (healthcare/occupational)

  • From mother to baby during birth

  • Tattoos/piercings with unsterile equipment

  • Sharing razors/toothbrushes that may have blood

  • Sex is less common, but possible

Not spread by: hugging, kissing, sharing food/drinks, or using the same restroom.

 

PrEP works best when taken as prescribed. An occasional missed dose usually doesn’t greatly reduce overall protection, but the more often you miss doses, the less reliable PrEP becomes. If you’re missing pills regularly (or stopping and restarting), talk with your provider—there may be easier adherence strategies or another PrEP option that fits better.

PrEP helps prevent HIV, but it doesn’t protect against most other STIs—so regular testing and barrier protection still matter.

You can lower your risk of STIs/STDs by combining a few proven steps:

  • Abstinence: Avoiding sexual contact altogether is the most effective way to prevent STDs.
  • Condom Use: Consistent and correct condom use during sexual activity significantly reduces the risk of transmission.
  • Regular Testing: Routine STD testing and open communication with partner(s) help ensure early detection and treatment.
  • Vaccinations: Vaccines for certain infections, such as HPV and Hepatitis B, can help prevent transmission.
  • Limiting Sexual Partners: Reducing the number of sexual partners lowers overall risk.
  • PrEP: Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a daily medication that helps prevent HIV infection.
  • PEP: Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) can be taken after potential exposure to HIV to reduce the risk of infection.
  • Treatment: If diagnosed with an STD, seeking prompt treatment helps protect your health and prevent further spread.

STDs can lead to serious long-term health complications if left untreated. Taking proactive steps to protect yourself and your partners is essential.

If you have questions or concerns about your sexual health, contact Lifeline Health today for confidential testing and care.

Confidential. Accessible. Community-Based.

Take the First Step
Toward Better Health

Schedule a confidential appointment for Hepatitis C, HIV, or STI testing and care with our compassionate Florida team.

Start Your Journey