Hepatitis C
Hepatitis C is a liver disease that comes from an infection of the hepatitis C virus. Some people who get infected are able to get rid of the infection by themselves; but most people will develop a long-term infection. Over time, chronic hepatitis C can cause serious health problems. In fact, hepatitis C is the leading cause of liver cancer and the leading cause of liver transplants. Treatments are available now that can cure hepatitis C.
Who Should Get Screened (tested) for Hepatitis C?
Testing for hepatitis C is simple. Doctors use a blood test to look for evidence that you have been infected with the virus. A positive screening test does not mean you have hepatitis C, just that you were infected at some point in time. An additional test called an RNA test is needed to determine if you are currently infected with hepatitis C. These tests are covered by HUSKY Health.
The screening is recommended for anyone who:
- Was born between 1945 – 1965
- Donated blood or organs before 1992
- Has ever injected drugs, even if it was just once or if it was many years ago
- Has certain medical conditions such as chronic liver disease, HIV, or AIDS
- Has had abnormal liver tests or liver disease
- Has been exposed to blood from a person who has hepatitis C
- Is on hemodialysis
- Born to a mother with hepatitis c
This portion of the HUSKY Health website is managed by Community Health Network of Connecticut, Inc.®, the State of Connecticut’s Medical Administrative Services Organization for the HUSKY Health Program. For the general HUSKY Health website gateway, please visit portal.ct.gov/husky. HUSKY Health includes Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program, and is administered by the Connecticut Department of Social Services.