![]() Long term infection with hepatitis C is associated with serious liver disease, and high mortality. Prevention of new infections, and testing and treatment of those who already have hepatitis C, are essential public health goals that are crucial to the task of reducing drug related harm. The Harm Reduction Works Hep C campaign aims to inform:
Key messages The Harm Reduction Works campaign resources aim to build awareness (how big is the hep C virus?) while trying to avoid creating or reinforcing a perception that hepatitis C risk is ubiquitous amongst injecting drug users, and that attempts to avoid it are futile. So, the materials seek to build on awareness with messages designed to facilitate action (easy to get, easy to avoid and time for a test?). There is also a durable 'we offer hep C testing' sign for services that offer testing, to remind and encourage clients to get tested. The DVDs for injectors (safer injecting and keep walking) are include short films designed to inform injectors about hepatitis C, and protect themselves from it. They include advice on how to clean syringes. In 2009 a hep C handbook will be published, giving drug users clear information on transmission, disease progression, testing and treatment.
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