Hepatitis C Testing
What to Expect
There are two tests needed to determine whether you have hepatitis C or not.
- Hep C antibody test: a positive result means you’ve been exposed to the virus at some point in your life.
- Hep C RNA testing: if you test positive for antibodies, you’ll then complete a Hep C RNA test, which checks for the amount of virus currently in your body. If this test is positive, it confirms that you have hep C. If you tested positive for antibodies, but test negative with an RNA test, it means you had the virus at some point but it cleared on its own.
Most results come back within about a week. Most clinics and care providers will ask that you come back to receive your results, but can make other arrangements as needed.
When To Get Tested
The only way to know if you have hepatitis C for sure is to get tested. You can have hepatitis C for many years without experiencing symptoms or feeling sick. It is important to test and treat hepatitis C as soon as possible to prevent further liver damage and disease. Getting tested for hepatitis C may be right for you if:
- You were diagnosed with HIV or hepatitis B
- You have shared drug-use equipment or personal care items, or experienced an occupational exposure (such as an accidental needlestick injury)
- You have received tattooing, piercing, or medical care with possibly nonsterile equipment
- You were exposed to blood during sexual activity
- You received blood products or an organ transplant prior to 1992
- You were born to someone living with hepatitis C or were born, travelled to, or lived in a region where hepatitis C is common
Two different blood tests are taken to tell if you have hepatitis C. The first test screens for hepatitis C antibodies to check if you have ever had hepatitis C. The second test checks to see if you have hepatitis C right now. Talk to your provider about what to expect.
Where To GO
For free, drop-in antibody testing, visit us on Mondays from 1:30-3:30 pm at Counterpoint:
446 York Street
London, ON
N6B 1R2
Other Clinic Options
To get tested for Hep C, you can also contact:
- Your family doctor or walk-in clinic (confidential testing with results in a few weeks)
- Your local health unit
- The London Intercommunity Health Centre (anonymous antibody testing with results within minutes)
More Information + Resources
- Hepatitis C: An In-Depth Guide (Catie.ca)
Questions? We’re Here For You
If you’re thinking about getting tested or are concerned about having Hep C or HIV, but want more information, don’t hesitate to contact our client services team. We’re here to help whenever you’re ready.