Hepatitis C Testing and Treatment

Hepatitis C frequently asked questions

What is hepatitis C?

Hepatitis C (also known as hep c or HCV) is a liver infection caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV). Hepatitis C is spread through contact with blood from an infected person. 

How do you get hepatitis C?

Today, most people become infected with the hepatitis C virus by sharing needles or other equipment used to prepare and inject drugs.  

Who should be tested for hepatitis C regularly?

The CDC recommends everyone get tested for hepatitis C at least once. People who có ever injected drugs and shared needles, syringes or other drug preparation equipment, including those who injected once or a few times many years ago should be tested annually. For a full list, please visit CDC’s website. 

What happens when you get hepatitis C?

For some people, hepatitis C is a short-term illness, but for more than half of people who become infected with the hepatitis C virus, it becomes a long-term, chronic infection. Chronic hepatitis C can result in serious, even life-threatening health problems like cirrhosis and liver cancer. 

Is there a treatment for hepatitis C?

Yes! Treatment is simple and most people can be cured in 8-12 weeks.

How do I protect myself against hepatitis C?

The best way to prevent hepatitis C is to avoid sharing all equipment used to inject or snort substances, personal hygiene products, and/or equipment used for tattoos and piercings that can have blood of other individuals on it. 

Hepatitis C treatment at Central City Concern in Portland, Oregon

If you have hepatitis C, you’ve come to the right place! Our expert staff will be with you throughout your journey. Treatment is very easy and convenient. Most people take medication just once a day for 8-12 weeks. We provide treatment access for everyone.  

Cost of treatment

Treatment is free or very low cost to most patients with insurance. If you don’t have insurance or are not eligible, our expert team can help you navigate and provide options. If there is any cost to you, our team will share that with you prior to starting treatment.    

Contact information

Central City Concern has two convenient locations for hepatitis C testing and treatment.