United States Department of Veterans Affairs
Hepatitis C

FAQ: How do I tell someone I have hepatitis C?

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for Veterans and the Public

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I tell someone I have hepatitis C?

Informing someone that you have hepatitis C can be hard. Most people know little about this disease. You can start with how you found out about your diagnosis. It helps to be prepared with educational materials on HCV, and to be aware of the ways that people can and cannot be infected. For example, it is very rare for HCV to be transmitted during sex. Be sure to tell anyone who may be directly affected, such as:

  • People you have shared needles with
  • Household members
  • Friends and family members you can count on for support. It's okay to ask that they keep this information private.

You may want to encourage others to be tested for HCV if they have similar risk factors.