How soon can you test for hepatitis c?

The window period for hepatitis C, which is the time it takes for the infection to become detectable in a test, can vary from 15 to 60 days. Most people develop detectable antibodies to the hepatitis C virus within 6 to 8 weeks of infection. However, it can take up to 6 months for some people to develop detectable antibodies.

People who have had a potential exposure to hepatitis C virus (HCV) should be tested for HCV infection. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent the virus from causing serious liver disease.