New baby with Unknown Hep C status

Hi guys.  It has been a while since I checked in.  A while back you were so helpful when I had questions about my adopted 2 year old son who had the HepC antibodies.  Fortunately, He is still testing negative for the HepC virus Via the HCV-PVR test.  The doctors say there is no need for further testing except to calm my nerves (we will still have a yearly test for that reason).  My new question concerns my baby boy' littles sister.  We were just fortunate enough to get his new baby sister.  She is now 3 months old and we have no idea about her Hep C status.  They both have same biological MOM and DAD. Mom is the one that has HEP C.  The hospital said there was no reason to test the baby until she is 18 months old.  However,   I want to know now.  Can't we do an HCV-PVR on her to see if she has the actual virus?  Please know that it would NOT matter to me she is still my baby but I want to know if she is sick.  You guys are always so very honest and frankly I have gotten so much conflicting info from the MEdical world.  I really don't take what they say for very much.  Thanks for all your help.  You are all in my prayers everyday.

SIncerely,
Worried Mom

PS> Her name is BreAnna if you feel like saying a quick prayer for her.  She is the absolute most beautiful baby girl in the world.  She is a miracle she came 3 months early and was addicted to Heroin from birth mom's habit.  I know she was meant to be something  very special and I am going to make sure that she can.

[BostonGirl]

Hi Worried Mom;
              I am a mother of 3 and I know your fear. But, please try not to worry. Look at the results of your baby boy. As you've stated, he tested for positive for Hep C, but now shows no active virus or viral load. ( all of my children tested negative, including my teenager, who frequently used my razors > before I was diagnosed)

But, if you feel you need to know right now, ask for the PCR. But honestly, from what I''ve read most babies will not be infected at birth. My Gastro quoted about 1%. The % might be a little higher than that,but not much.

Being a Mom, I probably would want to know too. Your doctors are correct in saying to wait until 18 months. Since her brother tested positive for antibodies, there's a possiblitiy she might as well.

But, again the PCR > viral load is the test that will show active virus. She might only carry the antibodies. Try not to worry, the chances are very slim that she is truly infected. I will pray for your baby girl.

God Bless, Sue

[t2622b]

Thanks guys.  I guess I need to leave it in Gods' hands.  The doctors said that even if we did the PCR test and it came back positve there is currently no meds available for children her age.  My  husband says to relax and he is probably right I just love her soooo much and the thought of her being sick makes me crazy.  On a good note though the doctors said that a lot of babies that do get the virus from birth are able to kick it up to 50% do.  Just remember us in your prayers and I will update you on her progress.

[Lynn2]

I know how worried as a parent you are.  I tested postive and would never have know I have hep c if I were not trying for another baby.  That has not worked out and we are going to try adopition but it is so costly that is also on hold.  We had my son tested and he tested postive also at 12 months old. His viral load was 2 million +. We tested again at 16 months and it is now down to 5,000.  We are going to retest in 6 months and see what those test bring.  Praying everyday he is curing himself but the not knowing is a constant worry.
All the best to you and your babies.

[wanpow]

my friend is now the foster mother of 3 children who parents both had the virus ( her brother who is now diseased ).One baby of whom came to her house at 2 days old. all kids tested neg. and all are fine though 2 of them show mild fetal alcohol symtoms (symptoms). the baby is now 4 and a real Gem. No problems whatsoever. Prayers r with u and the children.