Ireland is on track to meet its elimination targets set by the WHO for hepatitis C by 2030, according to the HSE.

 

The National Hepatitis C Treatment Programme has treated more than 7,000 people to date, 95% of whom are now cured.

 

More than 5,500 free hepatitis C home tests were ordered since the service launched in April 2023, following increased awareness of the service provided by the HSE.

 

The free service provides adults with the option to test for hepatitis C privately at home. The test involves a finger prick test, with a tiny blood sample dropped into a test tube, which is posted in a pre-paid envelope to a lab for analysis. Those who require follow-up treatment are contacted and referred to a participating clinic or hospital. 

 

Hepatitis C is a bloodborne virus, which infects the liver and if left untreated can cause serious and potentially life-threatening damage, leading to cirrhosis, possible liver failure and cancer – as well as a risk of spreading the disease to others. 

 

It is estimated that between 3,500-5,000 people are currently living with the virus without being aware of it.