Hepatitis C testing and treatment guidelines

Hepatitis C testing typically involves a blood test to detect antibodies indicating exposure to the virus. If positive, a follow-up RNA test measures the actual virus in your blood to confirm an active infection. Treatment usually comprises oral antiviral medications, often with high cure rates, taken over 8 to 12 weeks. Guidelines recommend testing for those at risk, such as people who use injection drugs or have certain medical conditions. Early detection and treatment can prevent serious liver damage, making testing and timely care essential for managing hepatitis C effectively.