Final answer:
Hepatitis C is characterized by being a chronic infection in most infected individuals, transmitted through infected blood, often leading to undetected liver damage.
Step-by-step explanation:
Hepatitis C (HCV) is characterized by becoming a chronic infection in 75%-85% of infected individuals. Unlike some other hepatitis viruses, HCV is not commonly transmitted through surface contact but through contact with infected blood, often from IV drug use or transfusions. It can cause liver damage that may go unnoticed due to its often asymptomatic nature, leading to a chronic state where the virus persists for years. Recent medications have shown effectiveness in treating HCV.