Hepatitis C Virus Infection in Europe

Abstract

The Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) is a significant public health challenge in European countries. Historically, healthcare-related procedures were the primary source of HCV infection in Europe. However, with the implementation of blood safety programs, injection drug use has become the main transmission route. The infection’s distribution and genotype prevalence vary widely across the continent. Even with the availability of highly effective direct-acting antiviral (DAA) therapies, HCV infection is far from being controlled. A significant proportion of patients remain undiagnosed, contributing to the ongoing transmission of the virus. Additionally, several barriers hinder the widespread use of DAAs, including high treatment costs, stigma, poor linkage to care, and considerable geographical variations in prevalence and transmission routes. The World Health Organization has set ambitious targets to reduce liver-related deaths, decrease new viral hepatitis infections, and ensure that 90% of infected individuals are diagnosed by 2030. However, most European countries face challenges, highlighting the need for screening programs, funding mechanisms, and public health strategies to effectively control HCV infection in Europe.