Hepatitis Australia is reminding people that HepLink is available to support anyone concerned about hepatitis B or hepatitis C. This follows recent media coverage of a health warning from NSW Health urging patients of Safuan Hasic, also known as Steven Hasic, to get tested for blood borne viruses.
Anyone in Australia can contact HepLink for free on 1800 437 222, you do not need a Medicare card to get support from the service. When you call, you will speak to a nurse, who can provide you with hepatitis information or support, or help connect you to local services for testing and treatment.
“Almost 300,000 people in Australia are living with hepatitis B or hepatitis C, and many don’t know it,” said Lucy Clynes, CEO of Hepatitis Australia. “HepLink is here to make sure no one falls through the cracks. Whether you’re worried because of recent news or just want to check your status, HepLink can help you get the support and information you need.”
“There is a cure for hepatitis C and effective treatment for hepatitis B, but people need to get tested to know if they are at risk,” said Steven Drew, CEO of Hepatitis NSW. “Many people don’t experience any symptoms for many years, until their liver is severely damaged. That’s why it’s so important to get tested.”
HepLink is a national, free and confidential service available to anyone anywhere in Australia. HepLink can link you to information, support, testing and treatment for hepatitis B and hepatitis C.
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About Hepatitis Australia
Hepatitis Australia is the peak community organisation to progress national action on issues of importance to people affected by hepatitis B and hepatitis C. Its members are the eight state and territory community hepatitis organisations.
About Hepatitis NSW
Hepatitis NSW is the community hepatitis organisation in NSW. They provide information, support, referral and advocacy for people affected by viral hepatitis in NSW.
Media Contact:
Grace Hogan, Communications and Partnerships Manager, Hepatitis Australia
0493 994 523
