Routes of Transmission of Hepatitis C

The transmission routes of the hepatitis C virus (HCV) are similar to those of the hepatitis B virus (HBV); however, since HCV concentrations in various body fluids are relatively low, how is hepatitis C actually transmitted?

Transmission Routes of Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C is primarily transmitted through three main routes: bloodborne transmission, sexual transmission, and mother-to-child (vertical) transmission. Bloodborne transmission may occur via blood transfusions or blood products. For example, if donated blood or blood products contain HCV, recipients may become infected following transfusion. A second major route involves transmission through breaks in the skin or mucous membranes—a highly significant mode of transmission.

For instance, hepatitis C incidence is high in regions with substantial populations of intravenous drug users, where shared or inadequately sterilized syringes are common. Skin or mucosal injuries—such as those resulting from insufficiently disinfected dental instruments, endoscopic procedures, eyebrow tattooing, or body tattooing—may also serve as entry points for HCV infection. Additionally, sharing personal items such as razors, toothbrushes, tattooing equipment, or earrings poses a potential risk for bloodborne HCV transmission. Sexual transmission occurs when one partner is infected with HCV and transmits the virus to the other partner during sexual contact—particularly among individuals co-infected with HIV, where the risk of HCV transmission may be elevated.

Mother-to-child transmission can occur when an HCV-positive mother infects her newborn during delivery. The risk of transmission increases with higher maternal HCV RNA viral load. Wishing you good health and happiness!