Aa
Aa
A
A
A
Close
Avatar universal

Hep c Transmission via toothpaste?

I have a family member who suffers from hep c. Another family member unknowingly used their toothpaste for a week. Anyone know rate/likelihood of transmission? Is this serious enough for hep c test?
3 Responses
Sort by: Helpful Oldest Newest
Avatar universal
There actually is a risk if they have shared the same tube of toothpaste. Assuming the hepatitis infected person applies the toothpaste directly to their toothbrush therefore exposing the exterior plastic on the toothpaste tube to the bristles on the toothbrush which could very well be contaminated.  

Either way, if you live with someone who is infected with hepatitis C, it's probably best to get checked every 6 months or so even if there has been no direct or relatively in direct contact. Just to be on safe side. This is not something I have read this, just my own personal belief. And you should definitely be checked if you are in a relationship with somebody who has it.  ( even though the risk of it being spread sexually is minimal.)
Helpful - 0
683231 tn?1467323017
Are you saying you are concerned about sharing tooth paste or tooth brushes?

There would be no risk from using the same tube of tooth paste

If you mean they accidently used the same tooth brush yes there could be a risk as lostinmt said. But the good news is there are now highly effective medicines to treat and cure hep c. Treatment could be as simple as one pill a day fo r8 weeks and cured depending on th epersons genotype and if they have lifer damage or been treated before with the old treatments. The family member should look into getting treated and cured then no one would have to worry about accidently using the wrong tooth brush anymore
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
According to the CDC website, it is a less common risk for infection (along with nail clippers etc...)  But he or she should probably get tested just to be sure.  If this has happened before or if they have come in direct contact with blood, they should be tested now. Otherwise wait about 2 months.  And if that test is negative, they should have another in the next few months.

Best wishes, it is probably unlikely but better safe than sorry.  Wishing everyone involved the best!
Helpful - 0
Have an Answer?

You are reading content posted in the Hepatitis C Community

Top Hepatitis Answerers
317787 tn?1473358451
DC
683231 tn?1467323017
Auburn, WA
Learn About Top Answerers
Didn't find the answer you were looking for?
Ask a question
Answer a few simple questions about your Hep C treatment journey.

Those who qualify may receive up to $100 for their time.
Explore More In Our Hep C Learning Center
image description
Learn about this treatable virus.
image description
Getting tested for this viral infection.
image description
3 key steps to getting on treatment.
image description
4 steps to getting on therapy.
image description
What you need to know about Hep C drugs.
image description
How the drugs might affect you.
image description
These tips may up your chances of a cure.
Popular Resources
A list of national and international resources and hotlines to help connect you to needed health and medical services.
Herpes sores blister, then burst, scab and heal.
Herpes spreads by oral, vaginal and anal sex.
STIs are the most common cause of genital sores.
Condoms are the most effective way to prevent HIV and STDs.
PrEP is used by people with high risk to prevent HIV infection.