The van offers free blood collection and blood spot testing for Hepatitis C, along with HIV testing by specialist staff, with no appointment required.
Westmead Hospital’s Gastroenterology and Hepatology director Professor Jacob George says many people are unaware they could be cured of Hepatitis C.
“Over time, Hepatitis C can cause scarring of the liver and can kill people who develop liver failure or cancer,”
Professor Jacob George
“Over time, Hepatitis C can cause scarring of the liver and can kill people who develop liver failure or cancer,” he said.
“By taking the van to the public, we want to reach those people who don’t like coming to hospital.”
Hepatitis C causes inflammation of the liver and is spread through blood-to-blood contact. In the WSLHD, it is likely that up to 9,070 residents have Hepatitis C.
However, less than 1,000 patients have been treated to date, which means more testing is needed so that people living with Hepatitis C can be cured.
And, unlike older Interferon medication, new treatments have a greater than 95 per cent cure rate and mean taking just one tablet daily, for 8-12 weeks with no, or minimal side effects.
The mobile testing bus will be at Parramatta Missions – Meal Plus on Friday, May 17, 10am-2pm.
