What is the OraQuick HCV Test?
The OraQuick® HCV Rapid Antibody Test is a simple, reliable, and fast diagnostic tool for detecting Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) antibodies. It’s widely used by healthcare professionals to screen patients for HCV infections—especially in clinics, outreach programs, and urgent care settings.
Developed by OraSure Technologies, this test is FDA-approved, CLIA-waived, and WHO prequalified, making it suitable for point-of-care testing.
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Key Benefits of OraQuick HCV
⚡ Rapid Results in 20 Minutes
Unlike standard laboratory tests, OraQuick delivers clear results within 20 minutes, without requiring complex lab equipment.
💉 Fingerstick or Venipuncture Sample
The test works with either:
Fingerstick whole blood, or
Venipuncture whole blood
This flexibility makes it ideal for mobile clinics, health fairs, prisons, and community health centers.
✅ High Accuracy
Sensitivity: >98%
Specificity: >99%
These high-performance indicators mean the test is both reliable and trusted worldwide.
🧼 Easy to Use
The single-use test kit comes with all required components and can be administered by trained professionals without laboratory experience. It’s also CLIA-waived, which allows use in many U.S. clinics and non-lab settings.
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Why Test for Hepatitis C?
Hepatitis C is a viral infection affecting the liver, often with no early symptoms. If left untreated, it can lead to chronic liver disease, cirrhosis, or liver cancer. Early detection through tools like OraQuick is key to:
Preventing transmission
Starting antiviral treatment early
Protecting long-term liver health
OraQuick supports global HCV elimination efforts by increasing access to screening in high-risk and underserved populations.
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Who Should Be Tested?
Hepatitis C screening is recommended for:
Adults born between 1945 and 1965
People who inject drugs
Patients with HIV
People with abnormal liver tests
Individuals with known exposure (e.g., needle stick injuries)
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How to Use the OraQuick HCV Test
1. Collect the sample (fingerstick or venous blood).
2. Insert the sample and developer into the test device.
3. Wait 20 minutes.
4. Read the result:
One line = negative
Two lines = HCV antibodies detected
Invalid = retest required
All positive results should be confirmed by lab testing before starting treatment.
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Conclusion: Fast, Accurate, Life-Saving
The OraQuick® HCV Rapid Antibody Test is a valuable tool in the fight against Hepatitis C. With rapid results, high accuracy, and field-friendly convenience, it empowers healthcare professionals to screen more people, faster—a crucial step in reducing the global burden of liver disease.
