HCV infection, or Hepatitis C, is a viral infection that affects the liver. It can cause both acute (short-term) and chronic (long-term) illness
. The infection is caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV) and is most commonly transmitted through the reuse or inadequate sterilization of medical equipment, blood transfusions, and injecting drug use
. Hepatitis C can range from a mild illness lasting a few weeks to a serious, long-term illness, and for some people, it becomes a long-term, chronic infection
. The symptoms of acute hepatitis C can include fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dark urine, clay-colored bowel movements, joint pain, and jaundice (yellow color in the skin or eyes)
. Chronic hepatitis C can result in serious, even life-threatening health problems like cirrhosis and liver cancer
. There is no vaccine for hepatitis C, but it can be treated with antiviral medications, and early detection and treatment can prevent serious liver damage and improve long-term health
