PERINATAL HEPATITIS C

ABOUT

Perinatal hepatitis C occurs when the gestational parent passes the hepatitis C virus (HCV) to the child in utero or during childbirth (also known as vertical transmission). The rate of vertical transmission of HCV is estimated to be ∼3% to 6%, but can be as high as 11% if the gestational parent is coinfected with HIV.​ Infants born to a person with HCV should be tested for HCV infection. Currently, there are no HCV treatments approved for use during pregnancy, and there are no preventive measures available that can reduce the risk of passing the virus to the baby. However, there are prescription medications available used to cure adults and children 3 years of age and older.

COMMUNITY

• Pregnancy and Hepatitis C Brochure​​

HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS

• Report within 1 week​ to the state health department
• ​ Testing for Hepatitis C During Pregnancy​
• ​ HCV Testing of Perinatally Exposed Children​
• ​ Perinatal Hepatitis C Case Report Form
• Testing Recommendations During Pregnancy
• Perinatal Hepatitis C Surveillance Protocol​
  

LOCAL HEALTH DEPARTMENTS

• Case Definition: Hepatitis C​ Perinatal​​
• Perinatal Hepatitis C Case Report Form​