 |
|
NEWS RELEASE Friday 11 December 2009 Annual report on Hepatitis C in the UK published The Health Protection Agency has today published its annual report on Hepatitis C in the UK. The report describes the progress of national plans to tackle Hepatitis C infection. The plans focus on preventing new infections, increasing awareness among the public and healthcare professionals, early diagnosis and treatment. In Northern Ireland the number of people with Hepatitis C remains low with around 135-140 new cases each year between 2005 and 2008. Most cases are in 25-54 year olds. Dr Maureen McCartney, Consultant in Health Protection in the Public Health Agency explained: “In Northern Ireland considerable progress has been made since the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety issued its Action Plan for the Prevention, Management and Control of Hepatitis C in 2007. A wide range of agencies have worked together on key areas of prevention, raising awareness and providing treatment services. “In particular, a programme of education and training for general practice has just started in Northern Ireland and will continue in 2010. We’re also expanding the needle exchange project to prevent new cases occurring. Importantly for the future, most of the agencies involved are actively engaged in the Northern Ireland Hepatitis C Managed Clinical Network.” Key priorities for 2010 include; reviewing the Managed Clinical Network structure and membership and developing the work programme for 2010-2013, implementing the agreed surveillance arrangements, reviewing existing information and training materials and extending the target audience and strengthening links with voluntary organisations. ENDS Notes to Editors The full report will be available to download from the Health Protection Agency website: www.hpa.org.uk Hepatitis C is a virus which is carried in the blood and many people with the infection often have no signs or symptoms at all – for years or even decades. Symptoms can include weight loss, stomach pain, jaundice and extreme tiredness. Anyone concerned that they may have been in contact with the virus should contact their GP or visit their local GUM (Genitourinary Medicine) clinic. For media enquiries contact: |