‘Find the Missing Millions’ is the theme as local officials mark World Hepatitis Day in the city.

An event goes at 11 am at Leger Square outside city hall.

Along with free, rapid hepatitis C and HIV testing available, there’s a bbq, games, selfie booth, entertainment and more.

Hepatitis facts:
– viral hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver caused by viral infection;
– 1 in 3 people worldwide has been infected at some point in their lives with hepatitis C or B;
– An estimated 220,697 to 245,987 Canadians were living with chronic hepatitis C in 2011. That is the equivalent of six to seven people out of every 1,000 Canadians;
– there is a vaccine for hepatitis A & B, but not for hepatitis C;
– it can take decades before symptoms appear;
– an estimated 44% of those infected are not aware of their status;
– approximately 1.4 million people die of the disease annually;
– liver experts recommend that those born between 1945 – 1975 get tested for hepatitis C as well as anyone else who may be at risk;
– there is a cure for hepatitis C and ACNBA can provide treatment to those infected;
– restrictions on when treatment can start have been lifted by the province; and,
– treatment is covered by the province.

(Logo submitted)

Filed under: aids-committee-of-north-bay-and-area