First, take a breath! Hepatitis C is very treatable today and can be completely cured in over 95% of cases. Here are the next steps:

See a Doctor

You can go to your general practitioner or directly to a gastroenterologist (digestive system specialist). If you are unsure or uncomfortable, here are other points of contact:

• HIV-specialist practices or practices with an infectious disease focus
• Doctors with explicit sexual health counseling or HIV care
• Hepatology outpatient clinics at university hospitals
• Outpatient infectious disease / infectious disease consultation hours
  

Schedule an appointment within the next few weeks - Hepatitis C is treatable, but shouldn't be put off for too long.

Bring Your Test Results

Show your results report (print the PDF or have it on your phone). This helps with the assessment. If you have symptoms (fatigue, abdominal pain, yellowing of the skin), mention which ones and since when. Questions about risk contacts are normal, but you decide what you share.

Treatment

Direct-acting antiviral medications (DAAs) as daily tablets for 8–12 weeks. Very well tolerated with a cure rate of over 95%. Avoid alcohol completely during treatment. Be sure to follow your doctor's instructions.

Informing Partners and Contacts

Close partners and people with risk contacts should be informed. Hepatitis C is not transmitted as easily through sex as other STIs, but it can be through blood contact (shared needles, razors, etc.). The risk is elevated during menstruation or anal intercourse, as bleeding is more likely to occur. The incubation period is 2–12 weeks.

The Most Important Things

1. Hepatitis C is curable in over 95% of cases
2. Don't feel ashamed. Anyone can get an STI and it is not your fault. Doctors treat them every day
3. Follow-up test 12 weeks after the end of treatment
4. Early treatment prevents liver damage
   

If you have questions or concerns, don't hesitate to call the doctor's office. It's always better to ask one time too many than to worry unnecessarily.