Hepatitis C is a viral infection that primarily affects the liver, causing inflammation and potentially leading to serious liver damage over time. The virus attacks liver cells, disrupting normal liver function and potentially causing scarring (cirrhosis) or liver cancer if left untreated.
HCV infection occurs in two distinct stages. Acute hepatitis C develops within the first six months of exposure, often presenting with mild or no symptoms. Unfortunately, acute infection frequently progresses to chronic hepatitis C, where the virus persists in the body for years, gradually causing liver damage.
In Australia, hepatitis C is primarily transmitted through blood-to-blood contact. Common risk factors include:
Many people with hepatitis C experience no symptoms initially, making it a "silent" infection. When symptoms do occur, they may include fatigue, nausea, abdominal pain, and jaundice. Regular testing is crucial, particularly for high-risk individuals, as early detection enables prompt treatment and prevents complications.
Australia utilises cutting-edge direct-acting antiviral (DAA) therapy to treat hepatitis C. These oral medications target specific proteins essential for viral replication, offering a highly effective treatment approach with minimal side effects compared to older therapies.
Current DAA treatments achieve cure rates exceeding 95% across all hepatitis C genotypes. Most treatment courses last 8-12 weeks, with some patients requiring shorter durations depending on their specific circumstances and viral genotype.
Under Australia's Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), hepatitis C treatment is accessible to all diagnosed patients regardless of disease stage or lifestyle factors. Treatment requires initial assessment by a qualified prescriber, with regular monitoring through blood tests to track viral response and ensure treatment effectiveness. Follow-up testing confirms cure approximately 12 weeks after treatment completion.
Australia offers a comprehensive range of highly effective direct-acting antiviral (DAA) medications for treating Hepatitis C. These modern treatments have revolutionised HCV therapy, achieving cure rates exceeding 95% with minimal side effects and shorter treatment durations.
Sofosbuvir-based combinations remain cornerstone therapies, with Harvoni (sofosbuvir/ledipasvir) and Epclusa (sofosbuvir/velpatasvir) providing pangenotypic coverage for most HCV strains. Maviret (glecaprevir/pibrentasvir) offers another highly effective combination therapy with excellent tolerability profiles.
Velpatasvir combination therapies provide additional therapeutic flexibility, particularly for treatment-experienced patients or those with specific genotype requirements. Ribavirin may still be prescribed as adjunctive therapy in complex cases, though its use has significantly decreased with newer DAA regimens.
The Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) provides comprehensive coverage for HCV medications, making these life-saving treatments accessible to all eligible Australian residents. PBS listing has dramatically reduced treatment costs and eliminated financial barriers to HCV cure.
PBS coverage requires confirmed HCV diagnosis through appropriate laboratory testing and clinical assessment. Both specialist hepatologists and appropriately trained general practitioners can prescribe PBS-subsidised HCV treatments, improving accessibility across metropolitan and regional areas.
Required documentation includes HCV genotyping, liver function assessment, and treatment history for previously treated patients. Most applications are processed without prior approval requirements, streamlining access to immediate treatment initiation.
Modern HCV treatments using direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) are generally well-tolerated, though some patients may experience mild side effects including fatigue, headache, nausea, or sleep disturbances. These symptoms are typically temporary and resolve after treatment completion. Your pharmacist can recommend appropriate over-the-counter remedies to manage these effects whilst ensuring they don't interfere with your HCV medication.
HCV medications can interact with various prescription and non-prescription drugs, supplements, and herbal remedies. It's crucial to inform all healthcare providers about your HCV treatment. Regular monitoring includes liver function tests and viral load assessments to track treatment progress. Always consult your healthcare team before making any medication changes, and maintain open communication about any concerning symptoms or changes in your health status.
Prevention remains vital even after successful treatment, as reinfection is possible. Avoid sharing personal items that may contact blood, practice safe injection techniques if using drugs, and ensure safe tattooing and piercing practices. Sexual transmission risk is low but increases with certain factors.
Comprehensive support is available through various Australian organisations:
These resources provide ongoing support for liver health maintenance, travel advice, and assistance with workplace or insurance matters related to HCV diagnosis and treatment.
