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CDC Report: 33 Million Americans May Have Hepatitis C

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  Published in Automotive and Transportation on Thursday, February 12th 2026 at 11:42 GMT by WSB-TV
      Locales: Georgia, California, Texas, New York, UNITED STATES

Atlanta, GA - February 12, 2026 - A newly released report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has revealed a startlingly high prevalence of Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in the United States. The data suggests that approximately one in ten Americans - roughly 33 million people - may have been infected with the virus at some point in their lives. This figure represents a significant increase over previous estimates and is prompting a renewed public health push for widespread testing and treatment.

The findings stem from a comprehensive re-evaluation of historical testing data, coupled with advanced analytical techniques. According to Dr. Jonathan Roberts, an infectious disease specialist at Emory University Hospital, the CDC's initial estimations were based on limited data and less sensitive testing methods. "We're now able to detect evidence of past infection with far greater accuracy," Dr. Roberts explained. "By revisiting older samples and applying modern diagnostic tools, a much clearer picture of the true scope of the epidemic has emerged."

Hepatitis C is a viral infection that primarily affects the liver. While many infections are asymptomatic, particularly in the early stages, chronic HCV can lead to serious complications, including cirrhosis (scarring of the liver), liver failure, and hepatocellular carcinoma (liver cancer). Without treatment, these complications can be debilitating and even fatal. The insidious nature of the virus - the ability to remain undetected for years or even decades - is a major contributing factor to its widespread prevalence.

The Baby Boomer Generation at Higher Risk

The CDC report highlights a disproportionately high infection rate among baby boomers - those born between 1945 and 1965. This generation accounts for an estimated 75% of all chronic HCV infections in the United States. The high prevalence in this demographic is largely attributed to exposures that occurred decades ago, before widespread screening of the blood supply began in 1992.

"Historically, Hepatitis C was commonly transmitted through blood transfusions, contaminated needles, and other medical procedures," explained Dr. Anya Sharma, a public health researcher at the University of California, San Francisco. "Baby boomers were more likely to have been exposed to these risks during a period when awareness of the virus and safety protocols were limited."

Beyond medical exposures, risky behaviors such as intravenous drug use (particularly sharing needles) also contribute significantly to HCV transmission. Increasingly, new infections are being linked to injection drug use, highlighting the ongoing opioid crisis as a major driver of the epidemic.

A Cure is Available, But Awareness Remains Low

Despite the alarming prevalence numbers, there is a crucial piece of good news: Hepatitis C is now curable. Direct-acting antiviral (DAA) medications have revolutionized HCV treatment, boasting cure rates exceeding 95%. These medications are typically taken orally for 8-12 weeks and have minimal side effects. However, many individuals remain undiagnosed, and therefore, untreated.

"The biggest challenge now isn't finding a cure, it's finding the people who have the virus," said Dr. Roberts. "Because many people are asymptomatic, they may not realize they're infected and unknowingly transmit the virus to others. Early detection and treatment are vital to preventing the progression of liver disease and halting the spread of infection."

The CDC is urging all adults, particularly baby boomers, to get tested for Hepatitis C. Screening is a simple blood test that can detect the presence of the virus. Several organizations, including local health departments and community clinics, offer free or low-cost testing.

Looking Ahead: Strengthening Prevention and Eradication Efforts The recent CDC findings underscore the need for a multi-pronged approach to combating Hepatitis C. This includes:

• Expanded Screening: Increasing access to testing, particularly among high-risk populations.
• Enhanced Prevention: Implementing harm reduction strategies to reduce transmission among people who inject drugs.
• Improved Linkage to Care: Ensuring that those diagnosed with HCV are connected to effective treatment.
• Public Awareness Campaigns: Educating the public about the risks of Hepatitis C and the importance of testing.

The goal, according to health officials, is not simply to manage the existing burden of HCV, but to eliminate the virus altogether. While ambitious, this goal is achievable with sustained investment in prevention, testing, and treatment programs. For more information about Hepatitis C, please visit the CDC website: [ https://www.cdc.gov/hepatitis/c/index.html ]