"Hepatitis C is one the most common blood-borne viral infections among injecting drug users and is transmitted through contact with the blood of an infected person. The main routes of transmission are mother-to-baby, unsafe injections, transfusion of blood and blood products, and unsterile tattooing and skin piercing. There were 1,236 cases of hepatitis C reported to the HPSC in 2010 (Table 6.2.1.2), compared to 1,257 cases in 2011.
"The number of notifications of hepatitis C continued at a very high rate in 2011 (Table 6.2.1.2). Where risk factor data were available, 82% were injecting drug users (Table 6.2.1.3). Most cases occurred in middle-aged adults and males (Table 6.2.1.4). The majority of cases were notified in the eastern region of Ireland."

Source

Irish Focal Point (2012) "2012 National Report (2011 data) to the EMCDDA by the Reitox National Focal Point." Ireland: new developments, trends and in-depth information on selected issues. Dublin: Health Research Board, p. 89.
http://www.drugsandalcohol.ie…