Yes, it is the RIBA test and that confirms the first test. Even if that comes back positive, it does not necessarily mean you actually have the virus. They will do a test that patients call a viral load test (HCV/RNA by PCR). In that test they look for the actual virus in the blood, not just the viral load. It isn't time to worry yet. Harder done than said, I know.
Take a deep breath and I hope you get good news. But if you don't, Hep C is not a death sentence especially with the new drugs coming quite soon.
Good luck.
Hi there,
Thanks alot for the reply. Just got a call from the clinic and they said my RIBA is Negative.
Still curious, any ideal whether I am still safe to donate blood im future? Does that mean I'm not a Hep C carrier at all?
Thanks in advance.
A RIBA result is considered very conclusive for presence of antibodies. If you have a negative result, it’s safe to conclude that you were never initially infected; the antibody result was false positive. No, you’re not either infected, nor were you ever a carrier of the virus.
Call the blood bank, explain the situation, and offer a copy of the RIBA for documentation.
Congratulations, and good luck—
Bill
Bill is totally correct. However, it is doubtful the blood bank would accept your donation as they are 1000% careful.
Hi Guys,
Once again thanks for the reply. I will offer the Blood Bank a copy of the RIBA test as suggested by Bill if they don't think I'm good for blood donation in future then it can't be help.(Which I hope is not the case)
Thank you so much for all the info, help and encouragement I really appreciate it. You guys take care and all the best as well.
Cheers.