Hepatitis C is a viral liver infection that contributes significantly to the burden of chronic liver disease. It is currently estimated that over 170 million individuals (3% of the world's population)are infected. In New Zealand, an estimated 25,000 people are living with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection and prevalence is predicted to increase by 50% over the next 10 years. HCV is primarily spread by blood-to-blood contact. The single most important risk factor for acquiring HCV is the use of injected recreational drugs, accounting for approximately 80% of infections.