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.