Understanding Hepatitis C: Symptoms, Signs, and Causes

The Causes of Hepatitis C Infection. Hepatitis C is primarily spread through exposure to infected blood. The most common route of transmission is through sharing needles or other equipment used to inject drugs. Before widespread screening of blood donations began in the early 1990s, many people contracted the virus through blood transfusions or organ transplants. Less commonly, the virus can be transmitted through sexual contact or from mother to child during childbirth. Healthcare workers are also at risk of contracting the virus through needlestick injuries.