Is there a vaccine for hepatitis C?

• A. There is a vaccine available.
• B. Vaccine is 100% effective.
• C. No vaccine.
• D. Vaccine recommended for all ages.

Answer: (C)

There is currently no approved vaccine for hepatitis C. The virus’s high genetic variability and ability to mutate make it very difficult to create a single vaccine that protects against all strains, which is why vaccines for hepatitis C haven’t been successful yet. By contrast, vaccines do exist for hepatitis A and B, but not for C. In the meantime, prevention focuses on reducing exposure—rigorous screening of blood products, safe injection practices, harm reduction for people who use drugs, and safe sexual practices. If someone does become infected, highly effective antiviral treatments can cure most cases, which is why treatment is emphasized alongside prevention.