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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Can Hepatitis-C Infections Be Contracted Form Tattoos?

I am a professional firefighter, I know I am high-risk for contracting Hepatitis C. I recently got a tattoo from a pretty reputable place. What are the chances I could have contracted Hep-C from this tattoo? also I recently got the tattoo when should I get tested if I had any concerns?
Tue, 3 May 2016
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hi,
Thanks for posting in HCM.
I understand your concern.
Hepatitis C virus is transmitted only by blood.
Unlike many other blood borne viruses (like HIV), virtually any source of blood or blood products seems to be capable of carrying the virus, even if the source is indirect, like for example - a used razor. This makes hepatitis C far more transmissible than most other blood borne viruses.
Hepatitis C virus is most frequently transmitted through large or repeated direct percutaneous exposures to infected blood.
Hence, there is a high possibility of contacting infection with Hepatitis C virus by means of getting tattoo as it involves repeated skin pricks.
Hope the information provided would be helpful.
All the best.
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Can Hepatitis-C Infections Be Contracted Form Tattoos?

Hi, Thanks for posting in HCM. I understand your concern. Hepatitis C virus is transmitted only by blood. Unlike many other blood borne viruses (like HIV), virtually any source of blood or blood products seems to be capable of carrying the virus, even if the source is indirect, like for example - a used razor. This makes hepatitis C far more transmissible than most other blood borne viruses. Hepatitis C virus is most frequently transmitted through large or repeated direct percutaneous exposures to infected blood. Hence, there is a high possibility of contacting infection with Hepatitis C virus by means of getting tattoo as it involves repeated skin pricks. Hope the information provided would be helpful. All the best.