Hepatitis Scotland says pills are an “incredible opportunity” to improve medical outcomes

A digital campaign has been launched to raise awareness of new treatments for hepatitis C.

To mark World Hepatitis Day on 28 July, Hepatitis Scotland is urging Scots to consider specialist treatment for the disease and to encourage others with the condition to do the same.

The #BeHepCFree campaign highlights the recent transformation of hepatitis C treatment, brought about by a range of new, extremely effective medicines available in tablet form and with minimal side effects.

Until the last few years, treatment included weekly injections for a year with side effects that mimic the symptoms of the flu and less than a 50% chance of being cured. Hepatitis Scotland says this put many people off getting treatment, or even from seeking a diagnosis.

The non-profit organisation says the new treatments represent an “incredible opportunity” to improve outcomes for thousands of people with the disease in Scotland.

Leon Wylie, lead officer of Hepatitis Scotland, said: “Covid has interrupted Scotland’s progression towards eliminating hepatitis C as a public health issue by 2024.

“Services are only now starting to come back online and therefore it has become even more important for those affected by chronic hepatitis C to come forward for treatment. The new drugs are transformative, meaning that it is now incredibly easy to be treated and cured.

“We believe it is vital that people come forward to access testing and care.”