Hepatitis C is a relatively new virus which can cause liver disease. It can lead to years of ill-health and even death. It is primarily caught through blood to blood contact. Some people become ill very quickly, with flu like symptoms, yellowy skin and eyes. On the other hand, most people will not have symptoms at the time of infection. The virus can sleep for up to 20 years before making a person ill. Experts believe that 40-60% of people who have ever injected drugs could be infected with this virus. It is a very strong virus and can survive outside the body for up to six months. Injecting drugs is one of the chief ways this virus can enter the body. Sharing any drug taking equipment, even water pots, puts you at serious risk of catching it. There is also a risk of infection from tattooing, body piercing etc, if the correct sterilising procedures are not in place. Always go somewhere reputable to get this done. Sharing items such as razors, toothbrushes etc also puts you at risk.