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Infection Control · single question

Which statement about hepatitis C is TRUE?

  1. It is caused by a single-stranded RNA virus
  2. There is no cure available
  3. Most infected people clear the virus without treatment
  4. Dentists have a lower risk of infection than the general population
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Correct answer: A. It is caused by a single-stranded RNA virus

  • A. ✅ CORRECT — HCV is an enveloped, positive-sense SINGLE-STRANDED RNA flavivirus. Its high mutation rate is the reason no vaccine exists.
  • B. ❌ HCV is now curable. Direct-acting antivirals achieve sustained virologic response in over 95% of patients.
  • C. ❌ The opposite is true: only about 15–25% clear spontaneously; roughly 75–85% progress to chronic infection.
  • D. ❌ Dental personnel have an occupational exposure risk that is at least equal to, and historically greater than, the general population.

Note: Contrast: HBV = DNA virus, vaccine available, higher transmissibility per exposure (~30% vs ~1.8% for HCV). HCV = RNA virus, no vaccine, but curable.

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