Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a bloodborne virus that primarily affects the liver, leading to inflammation and potential liver damage. It is mainly transmitted through contact with infected blood, often through sharing needles or other drug paraphernalia. HCV can also be spread through unsterilized medical equipment and, less commonly, through sexual contact. Many people with HCV may not show symptoms initially, but chronic infection can lead to serious health issues, including liver cirrhosis and liver cancer. There are effective treatments available that can cure most cases of HCV, significantly reducing the risk of long-term complications.