Hepatitis Australia is reminding all Australians, particularly anyone who received a blood transfusion or blood product before donor screening began in 1990, that hepatitis C is curable, and that free and confidential testing, support and treatment are available through HepLink 1800 437 222 or heplink.au.
This important reminder comes after the ABC’s Australian Story aired an episode yesterday evening, revisiting the experiences of people affected by hepatitis C and HIV contracted through blood and blood products in Australia prior to screening.
Hepatitis Australia CEO Lucy Clynes said the organisation’s priority was making sure anyone who saw the episode and had questions about their own hepatitis status knew where to turn.
“Whatever people take from the program last night, the single most important message we want them to hear is that hepatitis C is curable and that people can get tested confidentially, for free.
“If you received a blood transfusion or blood product before 1990, or you’re simply not sure of your hepatitis status, please don’t wait. A simple test can give you an answer, and if you do have hepatitis C, treatment today is highly effective, straightforward and available to everyone who needs it.
“We understand this is a deeply personal issue for many people, and that some in our community are still seeking answers and accountability for what happened to them. Our focus is on making sure practical help and support is there for anyone who needs it, right now.”
Earlier this year, Hepatitis Australia launched a new national hepatitis C telehealth service as part of HepLink. Heplink offers virtual care in an easier, more innovative fashion that helps people to access testing, treatment, and support. It is free to anyone anywhere in Australia; you don’t need a referral.
Anyone with questions about their hepatitis status, including as a result of a historical blood transfusion, can contact HepLink on 1800 437 222 or visit heplink.au for free, confidential information, testing and referral to local services.
Media contact Darren Rodrigo – 0414 783 405
