The virus, which is spread through blood contact, may affect around 70,000 people, and the disease is easily spread through sharing toothbrushes and razors.
The worrying figures come during “Testing Week” – with charities and experts calling on the public to get tested for the virus.
Although hepatitis C is treatable, if left untreated, it can lead to cancer, severe liver damage, and death.
Last month we launched the Comprehensive GP Toolkit, an ‘all-in-one’ toolkit for hepatitis C. Everything from an introduction to the virus to treatment is covered.
Check out the GP toolkit here >> https://t.co/o9uJjj8dLJ pic.twitter.com/kIRUCWSFsV
— Hep CU Later (@HepC_U_Later) November 10, 2023
What are the symptoms of hepatitis C?
Symptoms of the blood-borne disease include fever, feeling tired all the time, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, jaundice, abdominal pain and depression, according to Metro.
It’s worth noting that people can have hepatitis C for decades before noticing any symptoms, by which time serious damage may have already been done.
If the virus is diagnosed quickly enough, almost 100% of cases can be cured with antiviral drugs.
How do I get tested for hepatitis C?
European Testing Week starts tomorrow and we will join other organizations to raise awareness of testing and treatment to deliver on our commitment to eliminate hepatitis C.
Why wait? #europeantestweek pic.twitter.com/SP1U3vGdF4
— Hepatitis C Trust (@HepatitisCTrust) November 19, 2023
In the UK, people who wish to be tested for hepatitis C can do so at their local GP surgery, sexual health clinic, GUM (genitourinary medicine) clinic or drug treatment service.
Rachel Halford, chief executive of the Hepatitis C Trust, said: “With public awareness of hepatitis C so low, there is a lack of testing available to the public – and there are probably thousands of people who don’t know Put yourself at risk for hepatitis C. The virus.
“It may be many years before you develop any symptoms of hepatitis C, but if the virus goes undetected, it can cause damage to your liver, which can be life-threatening. Fortunately, hepatitis C can be treated in a short time A course of pills cures.
“If you’re worried about hepatitis C, it’s never been easier to get tested. NHS home testing kits will help you find out quickly and confidentially if you have the virus so you can start treatment immediately.”