Prevention

Protect yourself from hepatitis C infection by taking the following precautions:

• Stop using illicit drugs, particularly if you inject them. If you use illicit drugs, seek help.
• Be cautious about body piercing and tattooing. If you choose to undergo piercing or tattooing, look for a reputable shop. Ask questions beforehand about how the equipment is cleaned. Make sure the employees use sterile needles. If employees won't answer your questions, look for another shop.
• Practice safer sex. Don't engage in unprotected sex with multiple partners or with any partner whose health status is uncertain. Sexual transmission between monogamous couples may occur, but the risk is low.