Although the risk of sexual transmission of hepatitis C is small, you should always practice safe sex. People with hepatitis C infection who have multiple sexual partners or are in short-term relationships should use a barrier protection (ie, condoms) to prevent transmission of hepatitis C.

Never share objects such as needles, razors, toothbrushes, nail files, and clippers, which can be a potential source of hepatitis C transmission. When getting a manicure, tattoo, or body piercing, make sure sterile instruments are used and that the institution is licensed.

People who are exposed to blood in their work, such as health care workers, laboratory technicians, dentists, surgeons, nurses, emergency service workers, police officers, firefighters, paramedics, military personnel, or those who live with an infected individual, should take adequate precautions to prevent exposure to contaminated blood. This includes proper disposal of sharps and needles, regular handwashing, and use of gloves during invasive procedures. If you do have a needlestick injury at your workplace, you should be tested with an ELISA or HCV RNA test right after exposure and 4 to 6 months after the injury to make sure that you have not contracted hepatitis C. At present, hepatitis C prophylaxis after a needlestick exposure is not recommended.

Having one form of hepatitis does not protect someone from getting other forms. People with hepatitis C who also contract hepatitis A are at high-risk for fulminant hepatitis, which is a deadly and rapidly progressive form of the disease.

Therefore, medical experts strongly recommend that hepatitis C patients also get vaccinated against hepatitis A and B.