Overview
The whole process of injecting drugs carries an extremely high risk of transmitting hepatitis C. The majority of infected IDUs develop chronic hepatitis and have a further risk of developing serious liver disease and even liver cancer. Drug users are vulnerable not only to hepatitis C, but to hepatitis B, HIV and a wide range of other infections, yet they are more likely to slip through the healthcare net.

If there has been a risk of infection, it can take three months to show in an antibody test (occasionally longer), so many will be unaware they are carrying the virus and can unknowingly infect others. Clear information and advice is needed on drinking alcohol, injecting practices, cleaning equipment and preventing co-infection with hepatitis B and HIV or even another strain of HCV.

Drug users need access to tests and referral to a specialist if found to be positive; without referral they cannot be considered for treatment or have regular assessment of the health of their liver.