Can Hepatitis C Be Transmitted Through Kissing? the Risks - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

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Hepatitis C (HCV) is primarily transmitted through blood-to-blood contact, and its transmission through sexual activity, including kissing, is considered to be very low risk. The primary concern with Hepatitis C transmission is through sharing needles, blood transfusions (prior to 1992), and other forms of direct blood exposure.
When it comes to kissing, the risk of transmitting Hepatitis C through saliva is minimal. The concentration of the virus in saliva is significantly lower than in blood, making it unlikely for transmission to occur through casual contact such as kissing. In the absence of open sores or bleeding gums, the risk remains extremely low. If both partners are healthy and there are no cuts or abrasions in the mouth, the likelihood of transmission through kissing is negligible.

Regarding your specific concerns about having a cavity or dental issues, while it is theoretically possible for saliva to carry the virus, the actual risk of transmission through a cavity is still very low. The virus does not survive well outside the human body, and the conditions in the mouth are not conducive to maintaining the virus's viability. Therefore, even if there were some exposure to saliva containing the virus, the chances of infection through a cavity are minimal.

You mentioned that you have not engaged in kissing since last year and that your liver function tests (GOT, GPT) and AFP levels were normal at the end of the year. Normal liver function tests are a good indicator that your liver is functioning well and that there is no active liver disease. However, it is important to note that Hepatitis C can be asymptomatic for a long time, and the absence of symptoms or normal liver function tests does not definitively rule out past infection.
If you are concerned about Hepatitis C, it is advisable to get tested for HCV antibodies (anti-HCV) and, if necessary, a follow-up test for HCV RNA to determine if there is an active infection. If you test negative for HCV antibodies, it indicates that you have not been infected with the virus.

In summary, the risk of transmitting Hepatitis C through kissing is very low, especially in the absence of open wounds or bleeding. Regular testing and monitoring are essential for maintaining your health and peace of mind. If you have any further concerns or symptoms, consulting with a healthcare provider is always the best course of action.