HCV is perhaps the most dangerous of the hepatitis viruses. Like HBV, it is transmitted by bodily-fluids. It causes severe liver damage in 70% of chronically infected persons; there is no vaccine available; and 80% of infected persons have no symptoms or signs of the disease – so not only are they at risk, but they can pass it to others unknowingly. Those at particular risk and for whom testing is advised include:
• I.V. drug users – most infections are due to illegal injection drug useIt is important for people to know about the dangers of this virus and that is why this plush toy makes for a great teaching tool
• Blood transfusion recipients before 1992 (prior to donor screening)
• People with undiagnosed liver problems
• Infants born to infected mothers