I've been at risk - what next?

I might have been at risk. What should I do next?

If you think there's any possibility you may have contracted Hepatitis C, think about getting a test and make an appointment to talk to someone about testing such as your GP, nurse  or other qualified professional at a testing service in your area.

You'll be asked for information about how you may have picked up the virus, and how long ago this might have happened. Don't worry if you can't give this information. Many people never know how or when they became infected.

If your doctor thinks you have been put at risk, you'll be given advice and information about Hepatitis C testing to consider. You can be assured of complete confidentiality in any discussions, tests and results you have.

It is perhaps natural to feel frightened, but don't let that put you off. It is much better to know exactly where you stand, so you can access your options, such as treatment, rather than live with the stress of not knowing.

It is also worth remembering that treatment for hepatitis C is becoming more effective all the time, meaning that you are more likely to clear the virus after being treated. However, if you don't get tested and don't know that you have it, then you increase your chances of developing serious liver damage.