All perinatally exposed infants should be screened for HCV so that those with infection can be referred to care and curative treatment.
Target Audience: Healthcare professionals caring for newborns, infants, and children
Background
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection rates have been rising in the U.S. over the past decade, with the highest increases among young adults (including pregnant individuals, who showed a tenfold increase between 2000 and 2019). The CDC now recommends HCV screening in all adults at least once — and during each pregnancy. Perinatal HCV transmission rates are generally modest (5%–7%), with highest risk seen in those with detectable HCV RNA and those with HIV coinfection. Still, only a third of at-risk infants receive appropriate screening, prompting these guidelines.
Key Recommendations and Updates
Reviewing Author
DisclosuresNothing to disclose
DisclosuresNothing to disclose