Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the cost of HCV (Hepatitis C Virus) Viral Load Quantitative Test?

  Cost of HCV (Hepatitis C Virus) Viral Load Quantitative Test is 6000 Rs

• Can hepatitis C be prevented?

  There is no vaccine for hepatitis C. But you can help protect yourself from hepatitis C infection by:

  • Not sharing drug needles or other drug materials 
  • Wearing gloves if you have to touch another person's blood or open sores 
  • Making sure your tattoo artist or body piercer uses sterile tools and unopened ink 

• How is HCV transmitted?

  HCV is transmitted primarily through:

  • Birth to an HCV-infected mother
  • Sex with an HCV-infected person 
  • Sharing personal items contaminated with infectious blood, such as razors or toothbrushes
  • Other healthcare procedures that involve invasive procedures, such as injections
  • Unregulated tattooing

• How many days does it take for reports?

  Reports take 8-10 working days

• What advice and messages should be given to patients diagnosed with hepatitis C?

  Providers should talk to their patients about

  • the effectiveness and benefits of direct-acting antivirals 
  • the importance of avoiding alcohol, because alcohol consumption can accelerate cirrhosis and end-stage liver disease
  • the need to follow a healthy diet and stay physically active, especially for patients who are overweight

• What are the signs and symptoms of HCV infection?

  People with newly acquired HCV infection usually are asymptomatic or have mild symptoms that are unlikely to prompt a visit to a healthcare professional. When symptoms do occur, they can include:

  • Fever
  • Fatigue
  • Dark urine
  • Clay-coloured stool
  • Abdominal pain
  • Loss of appetite
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Joint pain
  • Jaundice

• What Is Hepatitis C?

  Hepatitis C is a liver infection that can lead to serious liver damage. It's caused by the hepatitis C virus. About 3.9 million people in the U.S. have the disease. But it causes few symptoms, so most of them don't know. The virus spreads through an infected person's blood or body fluids.

• What is the cost of the HCV Test?

  HCV Test costs 6000 Rs

• Who should be tested for HCV on a routine basis?

  Routine periodic testing is recommended for people with ongoing risk factors, while risk factors persist, including those who currently inject drugs and share needles, syringes, or other drug preparation equipment, along with people who have certain medical conditions.