Genetic variation in IL28RA is associated with the outcomes of HCV infection in a high-risk Chinese population

► Genotyping of IFNAR2, IL10RB, and IL28RA gene polymorphisms were performed using TaqMan® method. ► Carriage of IL28RA-rs10903035 A allele was associated with increased risk of persistent infection. ► Individuals with IL28RA-rs11249006 GG had a significantly reduced risk of chronic hepatitis C. ► IL28RA rs10903035-rs11249006 haplotype GG played a protective effect for HCV infection. ► IL28RA genetic variations were associated with outcomes of HCV infection in a high-risk Chinese population.