Hepatitis C (Chronic)

Clear→ stable

Bloodborne

Current NYS Status

4,308 cases in 2024 — near the 5-year baseline of ~18,283.

2024 statewide cases: 4,308

Source: NYSDOH Annual Communicable Disease Report 2024 + 5-yr baseline

What is it?

Chronic hepatitis C develops when HCV infection persists beyond 6 months. NYS had 4,308 chronic cases in 2024. It is the most common chronic bloodborne infection in the US, affecting approximately 2.4 million Americans. Untreated chronic hepatitis C can progress to cirrhosis, liver failure, and liver cancer over decades. The good news: direct-acting antiviral medications now cure hepatitis C in over 95% of people with an 8–12 week pill regimen.

How it spreads

Same routes as acute HCV. People with chronic hepatitis C can transmit the virus for years. Unlike hepatitis B, reinfection after cure is possible if exposure continues.

Symptoms

Most people with chronic hepatitis C have no symptoms for decades. When liver damage becomes significant: fatigue, jaundice, abdominal discomfort, swelling, and complications of cirrhosis. Extrahepatic manifestations include joint pain, skin conditions, and kidney disease.

Who is at risk?

Baby boomers (born 1945–1965) have the highest rates due to medical procedures and blood transfusions before routine screening began in 1992. People who currently inject or have injected drugs. All adults aged 18–79 should be tested.

What you can do

👁Get tested — all adults 18–79 should be tested at least once regardless of risk factors

👁People who inject drugs or have other ongoing risk factors should be tested at least annually

⚕️If diagnosed, see a specialist — modern direct-acting antivirals (like sofosbuvir/velpatasvir) cure hepatitis C in 8–12 weeks with minimal side effects

🛡Avoid alcohol and hepatotoxic drugs, which accelerate liver damage while awaiting treatment

Tier B — Annual report tracking

Based on NYSDOH annual communicable disease report. Threat level reflects 2024 case counts compared to the 5-year baseline.

Seasonality: year round

This information is for general public health awareness and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.