Hepatitis C

Find out how we define and monitor cases of hepatitis C, and where you can learn more about this disease.

About hepatitis C

Hepatitis C is a virus that can cause serious liver disease in an infected person. The hepatitis C virus is usually transmitted when blood from an infected person enters the bloodstream of another person (such as through sharing needles or certain sexual activities).

Disease type:
Bloodborne
Vaccination available under NIP:
No
Notifiable disease:
Yes

Prevention, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment

There is no vaccine to protect against hepatitis C, but there are some very effective options for the treatment of hepatitis C infection. Treatment options are available on the Medicare PBS (Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme).

For information about prevention, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment, see healthdirect's hepatitis C page.

Surveillance and reporting

Hepatitis C is a nationally notifiable disease.

We monitor cases through the National Notifiable Diseases Surveillance System.

For more on hepatitis C in Australia, you can search Communicable Diseases Intelligence

Date last updated:

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