What to do if you test positive for hepatitis c
What is Hepatitis C?
Hepatitis C is a viral infection affecting the liver. Many people have no symptoms and would not know they have the infection without testing.
What does a reactive screening result mean?
Your hepatitis C screening test may have shown a reactive result. This does not mean you have hepatitis C. Screening tests are designed to be very sensitive so that even very early infections are not missed. Because of this, they can sometimes react to harmless antibodies in your blood, giving a result that looks positive when there is no infection.
For many people, especially when the reaction is very low, the result is likely to be negative, but we recommend a repeat test to be sure. Most people who need a repeat test go on to have a negative result.
Why is a repeat test important?
In some cases, a stronger reaction on the screening test can indicate a true hepatitis C infection. We recommend you re-test at your local sexual health clinic or GP so they can support you with the next steps if the result is confirmed. Hepatitis C is now very treatable, and if the repeat test is positive, we will guide you through the next steps and link you with the right care.
If you’ve been advised to have a repeat test, please book this as soon as convenient using our service so we can give you clear and definite answers.
What to do next
- Confirmatory testing is required. You can find your local sexual health clinic: Find a sexual health clinic - NHS or visit your GP.
- Highly effective treatments are available, and many people are cured with treatment.
- A specialist will guide you through next steps.
The good news - Hepatitis C is now one of the most treatable viral infections.
For more information, please see:
The Hepatitis C Trust | Hep C charity
For further support, please contact our clinical team: [email protected]