Behavioural Virology Research: The Cognitive and Perceptual-Motor Performance of Chronic Primarily Asymptomatic Hepatitis C Patients

It is commonly believed that people perform less efficiently when suffering from viral illnesses such as colds or influenza, but there is a scarcity of both conclusive research and replicated data providing scientific evidence for this. The current review gives an appraisal of research into the cognitive effects of viral illnesses and their implications for future research into the hepatitis C virus (HCV), which has been neglected so far in the behavioural virology area. The natural history and aetiology of HCV, including coverage of modes of transmission for chronic and acute HCV and their implications for experimental investigations are also discussed. Finally, there is a summary detailing the importance of behavioural research into HCV and providing suggestions for future studies in the area.