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World Hepatitis Day: Breaking Down Barriers in Gwent

;This World Hepatitis Day (28 July), Aneurin Bevan University Health Board joins the World Hepatitis Alliance and partners around the globe in calling for action to eliminate hepatitis- an entirely preventable and treatable disease that still impacts millions of lives. 

Here in Gwent, we’ve been working hard to increase access to testing in key areas- including hostels and other settings supporting vulnerable groups. We have harnessed the use of dry blood spot testing, and rapid testing has expanded our outreach and community testing, with some community pharmacies also now offering this service, which enables us to reach more people. You can check which pharmacies offer this here: Blood borne virus (BBV) tests - Aneurin Bevan University Health Board

 However, many people still don’t realise they may be living with hepatitis, often without symptoms- and that testing and treatment are free and available.  

This year’s theme is about breaking down the barriers to a hepatitis-free future. Together, we are calling for: 

  • Greater awareness and understanding, so people can make informed decisions about hepatitis testing, treatment and vaccination. 

  • Support from decision-makers to ensure affected communities have the resources they need. 

  • An end to stigma and discrimination, so that no one is left behind. 

  • A shared belief that eliminating hepatitis is achievable- if we all work together. 

Gavin, Clinical Nurse Specialist in ABUHB Hepatology for the last 14 years said:  

“We’re pleased to now be testing for Hepatitis in hostels across Gwent- this is an important population that can be missed and who are vulnerable. We can then treat them easily too, it’s so crucial to get tested, especially when people don’t even realise they have hepatitis. I encourage you to have a look at this symptom checker Hepatitis C Risk Checker - The Hepatitis C Trust as anyone really can have this condition and it’s so treatable.” 

Visit the World Hepatitis Day website to discover how you can ‘break it down’ and help us eliminate hepatitis- right here in Gwent and across the world. 

Let’s break down the barriers - and take action for a hepatitis-free future.