This is also a blood-borne infection. It usually takes 8 weeks for liver function abnormalities to occur following exposure to the virus. It causes a long- standing (chronic) infection, and can in turn cause hepatocellular carcinoma (liver cancer). Transmission: Transfusion of unscreened blood Sharing of needles by intravenous drug users Organ transplantation Use of unsterilized needles for dental procedures, tattooing. Prevention: Proper screening of blood donors Use new needles each time, rather than repeating the use of one Do not share needles with anyone Proper sterilization of instruments prior to