The Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care is encouraging individuals who have ever taken street drugs or injection steroid drugs, or baby boomers who have been tattooed or experimented with street drugs, even if only once, to get tested for hepatitis C (HCV).

"This campaign is important to identify those who may have no clue they’re infected with HCV because it never dawned on them that they might have been exposed," said Dr. Morris Sherman, Hepatologist at the University Health Network.

Between 30,000 and 57,000 people in Ontario have no idea they're infected with HCV, which is spread by direct contact with the blood of an infected person. This can happen in a variety of ways, including getting tattooed with equipment that was not properly sterilized, or that were reused or by sharing 'works' or drug equipment with a friend.

Because there are often no symptoms, and because many people may not be aware they have been exposed to HCV, many individuals remain untested and untreated.

"The results from early treatment of hepatitis C are excellent, especially if people get tested early," said Dr. Sheela Basrur, Ontario's Chief Medical Officer of Health. "Early detection is also the best way to prevent the spread of HCV to others."

AVOID THE RISKS

To prevent hepatitis C, avoid the risks:

• Do not share drug needles or injection drug equipment
• Wear protective gloves if you are likely to be in contact with someone’s blood
• Avoid blood to blood contact during sexual activity
• If you are getting a tattoo, body piercing or acupuncture, choose a reputable service and ensure that only fresh, single-use, disposable needles are used and all equipment is disinfected and sterile.

Hepatitis C is a viral infection that is carried in the blood and can cause severe damage to the liver. The World Health Organization estimates that up to three per cent of the world’s population is infected with the hepatitis C virus (HCV). In Canada, there are more than 240,000 individuals infected with HCV. Many are not aware they are infected. While there is no vaccine to protect against the virus, hepatitis C can be treated and early diagnosis can lead to more successful treatment outcomes.

On April 4, 2005, Health and Long-Term Care Minister George Smitherman formed the new Ontario Hepatitis C Task Force and appointed John Plater, president of Hemophilia Ontario and co-chair of the Ontario Advisory Committee on HIV/AIDS, chair of the task force.

The task force is examining the current delivery of HCV prevention, treatment and care in Ontario.

April 2006

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