Niagara Health is hosting a community event in Niagara Falls next week to mark Canadian Viral Hepatitis Elimination Day.
The event will be held at the Niagara Falls Hospital behind the Allied Health Building on Thursday, May 9 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and will include education about the services offered by Niagara Health’s Hepatitis C Care Clinic, other resources for hepatitis C, liver health, addiction and mental health services in the region, private testing and more. The event will also feature a community health and social services fair, with a wide variety of community organizations and programs represented.
“This event serves as a platform to engage our diverse population with vital information about hepatitis, its transmission, prevention and available resources,” says Brenda Yeandle, Manager of Clinical Services in Addiction Services and Mental Health at Niagara Health. “By coming together, we can inspire positive action, reduce stigma and work towards a healthier, hepatitis-free community.”
This is the second year Niagara Health is hosting an event recognizing Canadian Viral Hepatitis Elimination Day in May, in addition to the annual World Hepatitis Day event at Montebello Park in St. Catharines, being held this year on Friday, July 26.
Hepatitis C is spread when blood carrying the virus gets into the bloodstream of another person. The virus attacks the liver and if left untreated can result in the development of cirrhosis, liver failure and liver cancer.
Registered nurses and outreach workers from the clinic will offer private hepatitis C testing. Community partners including the Screen For Life Coach will also be at the awareness day event.
“The Hepatitis C Care Clinic team works diligently with our local partners to advocate for increased awareness, testing and access to care,” says Karen Usick, Registered Nurse and Community Co-ordinator for the Hepatitis C Care Clinic. “We firmly believe that education is key to combating this global health concern.”
The Hepatitis C Care Clinic, which is part of the Addiction Services program, opened in 2011 and provides testing, treatment, case management, counselling and support. Education sessions are available on request.
For more information, visit the Hepatitis C Care clinic website, contact the clinic by phone at 905-378-4647 ext. 32554 or email HCCC@niagarahealth.on.ca
