HCV genotype and subtype

There are at least eight different types of HCV, known as genotypes.

They are numbered from G1 to G8, in the order that they were discovered.

These genotypes also have variations, called subtypes, which are named by lower-case letter (i.e. a, b, c, etc), also in the order that they were discovered.

Each genotype and subtype is a distinct virus. You can be infected and reinfected by more than one genotype or subtype.

You can also be reinfected with the same or a different genotype after successfully clearing or being cured of HCV.

DAAs that work for all genotypes. are called pan-genotypic.

Most people can be treated with these DAAs without being tested for their HCV genotype.

Some subtypes of  genotypes 1-8  are common in certain regions of Africa and Asia, and may be resistant  to one family of  DAAs, called NS5A inhibitors.

HCV genotyping and subtyping in people who live in or come from these regions can inform the choice of DAA treatment.

Last updated: 1 November 2024.