Coinfection of Hepatitis C Virus

There is a high rate of coinfection of hepatitis C virus (HCV) for people living with HIV because both can be transmitted through injection drug use. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 21% of people living with HIV are infected with HCV and an average of 75% of people living with HIV who inject drugs also have HCV. HCV has very low rates of awareness because it can be asymptomatic for years, so people may not be aware that they are infected. All people living with HIV should be tested for HCV because of the high rate of coinfection.

Resources to Learn More

Viral Hepatitis National Strategic Plan: A Roadmap to Elimination for the United States 2021-2025
Document
Outlines the goals and strategies supporting a national response to prevent new viral hepatitis infections, reduce the number of deaths, improve the health of those living with the disease, and coordinate, monitor and report on the implementation of viral hepatitis activities.
Organization(s): U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Date: 2020

Viral Hepatitis
Website
Provides background information, policies and guidelines about viral hepatitis A, B, and C. Describes in detail the Viral Hepatitis National Strategic Plan to address this disease.
Organization(s): U.S. Department of Health & Human Services

HIV/HCV Co-Infection: An AETC National Curriculum
Tutorial/Training
Evidence-based curriculum that includes training videos for providers about HIV and hepatitis C virus coinfection. Presents information about prevention, testing and diagnosis, and treatment as well as challenges for identification.
Organization(s): AIDS Education & Training Center Program