Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver. There are currently five known viruses that cause hepatitis (Microbiology, 10e). The hepatitis C virus (HCV) is transmitted through contact with the blood of an infected person; however, it is now more commonly spread among intravenous drug users who share needles. Healthcare workers are also at risk of contracting HCV, but with standard precautions the risk is low. “Before 1992, some people contracted HCV infection through transfusions of blood or blood products. Since 1992, all blood samples have been screened for HCV, and cases of HCV due to blood transfusions are now extremely rare. HCV can be transmitted from mother to fetus. About 4 in 100 children born to HCV-positive mothers are infected with the virus. A small number of cases are transmitted through sexual intercourse; however, the lifetime risk of HCV transmission from an infected individual to an uninfected spouse or sexual partner without condom use is estimated to be 1% to 4%. Some HCV outbreaks have also occurred when instruments exposed to blood were reused without adequate disinfection.” (Microbiology, 10e) The HCV virus measures approximately 50 nm in diameter; it is classified as a separate genus (Hepacivirus) within the family Flaviviridae. It is the virus that causes hepatitis C. This family of viruses all have ribonucleic acid (RNA) as their genetic material. “All hepatitis C viruses have an outer coat or envelope and contain enzymes and proteins that allow the virus to reproduce inside the body's cells, in this case, liver cells.” There are at least six strains of the hepatitis C virus and they all have this structure but have different genotypes. These... in the center of the paper... count some platelets. Depression, irritability, sleep disturbances, anxiety and personality changes have also been noted as adverse effects of this treatment. But the most significant side effect of ribavirin is hemolytic anemia. Hemolytic anemia is a type of anemia due to the destruction of red blood cells. Other side effects of ribavirin include cough and shortness of breath. There may also be some rashes. There is also the risk of birth defects. Despite these reported side effects, in many cases the virus can be completely eradicated after treatment. Works Cited World Health Organization Website, (retrieved November 16, 2011) http://www.who.int/csr/disease/hepatitisHepatitis C Support Project, (retrieved November 27, 2011) http://www. hcvadvocate.org/hepatitis/factsheets_pdf/Inf%20and%20Rib.pdf Tortora, Funke, Case, (10th edition), Microbiology