Treating Hep C

Hep C can be cured*

*Cure means the hep C virus is not detectable in your blood 3 months after treatment has ended.

The only way to know if you have hep C is to get tested.

Hep C can be treated

A new hep C infection does not always require treatment and some people can clear the infection within the first 6 months. If the new infection persists beyond this point, it is considered chronic and requires treatment.

With treatment, hep C can be cured*.

*Cure means that the hep C virus is not found in the blood 3 months after the end of treatment.

 

A healthcare professional will be able to advise if treatment is required.

Current treatments for hep C, called direct-acting antiviral (DAA) regimens, are used to treat chronic hep C in New Zealand. DAAs help stop the virus from multiplying and spreading to other cells.

Today's treatments are pills that can usually be taken for 8-24 weeks.

Today's Hep C Treatments

DURATION† OF THERAPY

†Treatment duration depends on several factors.

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Duration of today's hep C treatments^ are 8‑24 weeks.

^ Direct-acting antivirals (DAAs)

ADMINISTRATION

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Pill form

CURE RATES*

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Today's hep C treatments^ can cure* the virus in the majority of people living with hep C.

 

^ Direct-acting antivirals (DAAs)

*Being cured means the hepatitis C virus is not detectable in your blood 3 months after treatment has ended.

SIDE EFFECTS

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As with all treatments there may be side effects. Your healthcare professional will advise what's best for you.

Remember, hep C can be cured*

Follow these simple steps to take action:

    • Download the Healthcare Professional Discussion Guide to prepare talking points before your next appointment.
    • Share your answers with your healthcare professional.
    • Ask if getting treated is an option for you.

*Cure means that the Hep C virus is not found in the blood 3 months after the end of treatment.

How do my healthcare professional and I decide on treatment?

Your healthcare professional will look at your health history and decide if treatment is right for you. The treatment you receive and the length of treatment may depend on:

  • How much virus is in your body (viral load)

  • Whether you have liver damage

  • Whether or not you've been treated previously

Diagnosed with Hep C?

Learn more about looking after your health and your liver.

Learn more

TESTING SAVES LIVES

Your healthcare professional is the best person to talk to if:

  • you have any questions about hepatitis C
  • you want to get tested
  • you want to discuss treatment options
  • you want to learn more about how to stay healthy.

You can use the hep C checklist which includes risk factors and symptoms together with some suggested questions to ask.

The information provided on this website should be used as a guide only. It doesn't replace the advice of your healthcare professional.

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TAPS BG4425. NZ-VHCV-220013. Prepared November 2024.