Anyone can get infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV), the virus that causes hepatitis C. Hepatitis C is a liver infection that can lead to serious liver problems and possibly death. Although most children and adolescents recover from the initial phase of HCV infection, 70% to 80% of acute infections become chronic. Here is information from the American Academy of Pediatrics about HCV symptoms, how HCV is spread, and ways to reduce the risk of an HCV infection.