How long does the hep virus lives outside body?

[demigonza]

Hi everyone. I accidentally pricked my finger with a pin 5 months later than someone who pricked himself with the same pin and possibly had hepb/hepc/hiv. Is 5 months enough to stay calm because any virus would be dead? Any help would be very much appreciated. Thank you.

[MHEditor]

Here is an article from MedHelp.org about Hep C transmission that also cites the CDC statistic of 3 weeks above. Hope this alleviates some of your concerns. http://www.medhelp.org/hepatitis-c/articles/What-Is-Hepatitis-C/2251

[flyinlynn]

Hi

You should be fine. However, if you are really stressing out about this, follow up with your doctor, which should alleviate all concerns.

Best wishes,

[demigonza]

Thank you

[hrsepwrguy]

How long does the Hepatitis C virus survive outside the body?

The Hepatitis C virus can survive outside the body at room temperature, on environmental surfaces, for up to 3 weeks.

http://www.cdc.gov/hepatitis/hcv/cfaq.htm

[demigonza]

Thank you for your answer. I´ve also read that it can live up to 6 weeks: http://www.hivandhepatitis.com/hepatitis-c/hepatitis-c-topics/hcv-prevention/4446-hepatitis-c-virus-can-live-on-surfaces-for-up-to-6-weeks

Guess in my case (5 months) I don´t have to worry at all...