Anyone with some advice about Hepatitis C?

My mom has Hep C and she gives herself a shot every Friday. I was helping her one night and when she pulled the needle out, somehow it came my way and stuck my leg. I know that's how Hep C is transmitted. I quickly got some peroxide and started squeezing the spot where I got stuck to try and get whatever out. Anyone have any advice for me. I'm scared that in 5-15 years I'll get the horrible disease.Anyone with some advice about Hepatitis C?
Erica,


It is difficult to say if you got Hep C (HCV), or not. Yes, I know that needle sticks are potentially a transmission point. On the other hand infergen is not injected into the blood stream, but rather is injected into a fatty area, so it is difficult to say how much exposure to HCV you got. It is a waste of time to take a blood test right now as the HCV antibodies may not show up for 6 months.


HCV is a tough little SOB, so I wouldn't say you are safe, but it's not the same exposure as an IV drug user, or a nurse drawing blood would have. Wait the six months, then go get a test.


I know how rough the treatment can be on some, but your mother has to recognise the fact that this is her cross to bear. As you were told by others here, don't use her toothbrush, hairbrush, and razor. If she gets cut, etc. make sure that you are wearing rubber, plastic, etc. gloves if you decide to clean blood up, and clean it with a 10% solution of bleach. Remember also that this SOB can stay alive in dried blood for 4 to 6 days, depending on who's study you believe.


There is no point in worrying right now, try to put it aside as much as possible. There isn't anyway that anyone can tell if you picked it up until after the 6 months it takes for antibodies to show up if they're going to. Stay on top of it at that point though, as studies have shown that HCV in the early phase of infection is usually much less resistant to treatment, meaning if you do have it there is a very good chance that you will ';clear'; (no virus in blood) the virus with treatment. There is also another drug in the final trial phase right now which should result in improved treatment for even non-responders like me. If you show antibodies get a Hepatologist for treatment, don't let a General Practioner be the lead Dr. in treating HCV.


I'm sorry to hear of this occurance. Those of us who have been in this battle for some time take our responsibilities to prevent others from getting this disease from us very seriously. We are always disapointed to hear of accidents like this. I wish you well and hope you show no antibodies in 6 months.Anyone with some advice about Hepatitis C?
My sister has Hepatitis B and C. I called the CDC in Atlanta and was surprised that you can get rid of hep B but not Hep C. Because it is blood born, you need to get to the doctors and get gamma globulin from the doctor ASAP. Also your Mom has to be careful that no one else uses her razors or your toothbrushes remain at a distance from other people's toothbrushes. Get to the doctor. My niece had to because my sister bit her and with the gamma globulin and it has been many years, she is fine. Always wear latex gloves and be careful you don't get poked when helping your Mom. Sorry to hear this. All needles (called sharps) must be placed in a special container that is used only for that. Hepatitis affects the liver.
There is a real chance that you became infected but it might give you some peace to know that if a person is stuck with a needle from an HIV infected individual, there is only a 0.3% that they will get HIV.
You need to get to a doctor and get tested.
You should see a doctor and get tested.
well my best advice is: go to a doctor and tell your story. he will help you for sure.