Scots are being warned they are putting their health at risk by failing to get tested for Hepatitis C.

An estimated 36,000 people in Scotland have the virus, with almost half of sufferers remaining undiagnosed.

If left untreated, it can cause serious liver damage and lead to liver cancer.

A new campaign launched on Thursday to coincide with World Hepatitis Day is urging more Scots to get checked for the condition.

An action group, incorporating health boards and charities Hepatitis Scotland, the Hepatitis C Trust, Waverley Care and Positive Help, says Scots are gambling with their health by "doing nothing".

Grant Sugden of Waverley Care said: "We work with people with hepatitis C every day and have seen how testing and treatment can put people on a path to a healthier future.

"The earlier that people can get tested the better, and if you are diagnosed, support is available. Don't gamble with your health, take the test, get into treatment, and stack the odds in your favour."

Leon Wylie of Hepatitis Scotland added: "The key to this whole campaign is doing nothing is not good odds for your health.

"Don't get left at the starting gate or leave your run too late. Get tested, get treated, four small words but they are your best bet by far."

As well as offering advice about treatment and support, the HepCScot website identifies some of the potential ways that the virus is spread.