Maribyrnong’s high hep C rate in focus

MARIBYRNONG’S high rates of hepatitis C are being highlighted as part of Hepatitis Awareness Week (July 21-28).

Hepatitis Victoria data reveals Maribyrnong has the third-highest rate of hepatitis C infections in metropolitan Melbourne, with 68.6 positive tests per 100,000 people in the 12 months to last August.

Western Region Health Centre will run a community hepatitis information stall in Footscray Mall from 10am-2pm on Monday.

The centres’s chief executive Lyn Morgain said there was a wide range of misinformation surrounding the liver-damaging  virus.

“By being present in the community, WRHC staff can assist people to be proactive in looking after themselves, whether this is to reduce risk, gain diagnosis, or manage their health while living with hepatitis,” she said.