University of Washington Apr 23 2026 It took less than 22 years after the discovery of the hepatitis C virus (HCV) for a fast-acting, highly effective treatment to become available. Modern drugs are more than 95% effective at curing hepatitis C infection, yet the virus remains a critical public health problem. It's the most common bloodborne illness in the United States, and disproportionately impacts low-income people and marginalized communities.  A directive signed by former Gov. Jay Inslee