What is one key characteristic of hepatitis C?

The key characteristic of hepatitis C is that it is spread through contact with contaminated blood. This virus is primarily transmitted when an uninfected person's blood comes into direct contact with the blood of an infected person. Common routes of transmission include sharing needles or other equipment to inject drugs, receiving contaminated blood products, or by being born to an infected mother. Unlike some other viruses, hepatitis C is not easily spread through casual contact or respiratory droplets, making the mode of transmission through blood contact distinct and critical for understanding how to prevent infection. This characteristic is essential for healthcare providers and patients alike in managing and controlling the spread of the disease.