Individuals at highest risk for hepatitis C infection are illicit intravenous drug users who use non-sterile needles. Men who have sex with men are at a higher risk for hepatitis C transmission than heterosexual individuals, but the risk is still less than that of IV drug use. Due to the HCV screening of blood prior to administration, the risk of contracting hepatitis C from a blood transfusion has declined significantly. Although healthcare workers who care for patients with hepatitis C are at a higher risk than the general population for contracting HCV, there is a low risk of contracting HCV following a needlestick injury.