Do I need to tell anyone if I have hepatitis C? Normally, it is your choice whether or not to tell people if you have hepatitis C. This includes doctors, dentists and places where you can get a tattoo or piercing. This is because they have rules in place to stop the spread of viruses. There are some times when you must say if you have hepatitis C now, or have had it in the past. These are: before giving blood. You can't give blood if you’ve ever had hepatitis C. when applying for insurance. This could be life insurance or some other types. This is because your health might change whether or not they decide to insure you. members of the Australian Defence Force, including Navy, Army and Air Force. If you apply to join the Australian Defence Force, they will test you for hepatitis C. if you are a healthcare worker who carries out exposure-prone procedures (EPPs). If you do this, you could come into contact with sharp instruments or tissues (such as splinters of bone or teeth) inside a person’s body. Most often this applies to surgeons and dentists. Most healthcare workers do not carry out EPPs. Find out more by reading the guidelines on the Department of Health website. when applying for a visa to live in Australia. Everything you say in a visa application form must be true. You may have to have a hepatitis C test if you are applying to live in Australia. If you wish to donate organs or sperm. You will get tested for hepatitis C before you can donate organs or sperm. Some people with hepatitis C can still donate but others can't. Find out more about your rights and responsibilities References What is Hepatitis C? All Good, ASHM I had hepatitis - can I donate? Australian Red Cross Blood Service CDNA National Guidelines for healthcare workers on managing bloodborne viruses, Department of Health and Aged Care Updated 14 March 2023 Manage Cookie Preferences