Hepatitis C is a severe disease that damages the liver, triggering terminal conditions like cirrhosis and liver cancer. It is very prevalent in our country, with at least two million cases. There are several treatment options for hepatitis C. But unfortunately, there is also a lot of misinformation about the disease among the general public, making its management more difficult. Here, we have listed some myths and facts about the condition.

1. Myth: There is no effective treatment
This is one of the most common myths that people come across about hepatitis C. Yes, the disease was difficult to treat earlier. However, with the advancement in medical science, more than 90 percent of cases can be cured within eight to 12 weeks using antiviral medications.

2. Myth: Hepatitis C is easy to detect
Hepatitis C is often called a “silent epidemic.” A person suffering from the disease does not exhibit any symptoms, and hence they might not know that they are ill. Some patients have lived with the disease for more than a decade without ever diagnosing it. However, the signs appear once the problem worsens or develops into severe liver disease.

3. Myth: There is a vaccine to protect from hepatitis C
This is yet another common myth. There is no vaccine to ward off the risk of hepatitis C. However, one can get vaccinated against hepatitis A and B. Health experts suggest getting tested to check the type of infection to avoid the risk of liver infection further.

4. Fact: Hepatitis C cannot spread through casual contact
Although a viral disease, hepatitis C does not spread through casual contact or normal activities of daily living like hugging, holding/shaking hands, sneezing, and coughing. Being a blood-borne virus, hepatitis C can only spread by coming into contact with an infected person’s blood. Having unprotected sex and sharing needles or other personal belongings are common risk factors.

5. Fact: One can get infected twice
As there is no vaccine to fight hepatitis C, one can get infected from the disease more than once in their lifetime. This is why it is essential to follow a healthy lifestyle and follow a proper personal hygiene routine to decrease the risk of infection.

6. Fact: Women with hepatitis C can breastfeed
The hepatitis C virus cannot enter the breastfeeding stream as it is different from the bloodstream. So, it is safe for a mother with hepatitis C to breastfeed their newborn. That said, there is a risk of infection if the mother develops cracks or bleeding nipples while breastfeeding. Hence, it is recommended to abstain until completely cured to eliminate the risk of transmitting the virus to the baby.

To fight diseases like hepatitis C, it is essential to know the facts and myths. Individuals can contact a doctor if they develop symptoms to understand the right way of dealing with the disease.