Determining the Incidence of Hepatitis C Virus Infection in Populations: An Important Tool for Epidemic Control

persons. These logistically complicated studies often yield results that are not representative of the larger population of interest as the interventions involved may alter behaviors and subsequent HCV infection incidence. Use of mathematical models to estimate incidence on the basis of HCV prevalence has a role, but input parameters are often not available for specific locations and key populations, resulting in imprecise estimates. Accurate determinations of the incidence of HCV infection are essential to characterize and monitor the epidemic, identify populations currently at highest risk, and assess the effectiveness of interventions. Fortunately, we are in the midst of a