Health and wellbeing
Council marks World Hepatitis Day
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World Hepatitis Day takes place on Saturday 28 July 2024 and to mark this awareness day, the Public Health team at Walsall Council is partnering with local charity Change Grow Live Walsall (The Beacon) and the Hepatitis C Trust to offer free testing for, Hepatitis B and C throughout the week from Monday 29 July to Friday 2 August 2024.
The aim is to raise awareness about Hepatitis and encourage Walsall residents to get tested.
The Hepatitis C Trust will be on-site at CGL Walsall, The Quarter on Thursday 1st of August from 10am to 2pm, to offer the free Hepatitis and HIV testing and provide support to individuals who have tested positive to Hepatitis.
“ Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver that can cause a range of health problems and can be fatal. It can be caused by a number of things including hepatitis viruses, and alcohol use.
World Hepatitis Day is a crucial opportunity to educate our community about this serious illness and the importance of getting tested. The good news is that it can be treated, and I’d encourage residents to come forward for a Hepatitis test. “
During the week, the Hepatitis C Trust will be distributing informational materials, stress balls, and water bottles. In addition, text messages will be sent to service users outlining testing options and support resources.
“ Many people with Hepatitis are unaware that they have the virus. Early detection allows you to get treatment and helps prevent serious long-term health problems. There is also an effective vaccine for Hepatitis B. Early detection can save lives and testing for Hepatitis is quick, easy, and completely confidential. People who are more at risk of hepatitis viruses include people who have travelled to parts of the world where the viruses are more common and people who share/have shared needles.
Hepatitis B can also be transmitted sexually, through unsterilised tattoo equipment or blood transfusions in countries which do not test blood for Hepatitis B. “
Please speak to a member of staff if you would like a free full vaccination course for Hepatitis B.
For more information about hepatitis viruses, please visit: Hepatitis - NHS (www.nhs.uk)
For more information on how to access support, visit: https://hepctest.nhs.uk/
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Notes to editors
Change Grow Live (CGL) offers free and confidential advice to help you to cut down or stop drinking or taking drugs. They can advise on how you can stay safe and healthy. They are based at St. Matthew’s Quarter in Walsall town centre.
Support offered includes:
- Structured drug treatment intervention programmes with a keyworker and shared-care services based at GP surgeries.
- Specialist needle exchange.
- Blood borne virus screening and vaccination.
- Harm reduction interventions.
- Access to mutual aid services, for example Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, Family Anonymous, SMART Recovery.
Residents can refer themselves or professionals can refer clients to the service online at: https://www.changegrowlive.org/the-beacon-walsall/referrals.
The service also offers outreach-based support for young people in the community, including at schools or colleges.
For more information about Change Grow Live, visit:
https://www.changegrowlive.org/the-beacon-walsall/hubs
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