What does a low Hep C viral load mean?

A low viral load means a person has low levels of HCV in their blood, while a high viral load indicates higher levels of the virus present. According to the Department of Veterans Affairs, healthcare professionals usually define a low viral load as less than 800,000 international units per liter (IU/L).

What’s a high viral load for hep C?

A viral load of more than 800,000 IU/mL is considered high. This can make successful treatment more challenging. Undetectable viral load. A viral load of less than 615 IU/mL means there’s no detectable HCV, or it’s too low to detect.

What does it mean when the viral load is zero?

Having an undetectable viral load does mean that there is not enough HIV in your body fluids to pass HIV on during sex. In other words, you are not infectious. For as long as your viral load stays undetectable, your chance of passing on HIV to a sexual partner is zero.

What does a viral load of 40 mean?

A viral load of 40 is excellent. This means that you’re undetectable, and that you can’t transmit HIV through sexual intercourse. It also means that there will be less risk to your baby. You’re already doing the best thing possible by being on ARVs and adhering to them.

What is viral load in hepatitis C (HCV)?

Hepatitis C (HCV) and Viral Load: What Can It Tell You? Your viral load is how much hepatitis C virus (HCV) is in your blood. Your starting level can give a clue to your chances of success with treatment.

What is a high or low HCV count?

Some researchers consider high levels anything above 400,000 IU/mL. Low viral load: This is a count below 800,000 IU/mL. Your odds that treatment will make all or most of your HCV go away are better than with a high viral load. 1

Is it normal to have a viral load in the millions?

It’s not uncommon to have a viral load in the millions. Today’s hepatitis C treatments are very effective with both high and low viral loads. An undetectable HCV viral load 10-12 weeks after hepatitis C is completed is associated with a cure. The quantitative HCV RNA test is used to monitor a patient who is currently on treatment.

What is considered a high viral load?

High viral load: This is when your count is more than 800,000 IU/mL. If your viral count is high at the start, it can be hard or impossible for your treatment to completely get rid of the virus. Some researchers consider high levels anything above 400,000 IU/mL. Low viral load: This is a count below 800,000 IU/mL.