Should You Be Tested?
Most people infected with the hepatitis C virus don't know it. If you might be one of them, you need to get a blood test--not just for your sake but to protect a current or future partner and any family members. Health insurance generally covers the cost, and some health clinics test free of charge. If you fall into any of the following risk groups, public-health physicians urge you to talk to your doctor about being tested.
Used IV drugs, even if only once or long ago.
Received a blood transfusion or organ transplant before July 1992, when sophisticated tests became available.
Received blood-clotting products before 1987, when improved manufacturing eliminated most risk.
Received a blood transfusion and were later notified that the donor tested positive for hepatitis C.
Received or are receiving kidney dialysis.
Work in a healthcare setting and were stuck by a needle or splashed in the face with blood or body fluids.
Were born to a woman who had or has hepatitis C.
Received abnormal results from liver-enzyme test.
Suspect inoculation or tattoo with an unsterilized needle.
This story appears in the March 13, 2006 print edition of U.S. News & World Report.
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