It is estimated that over 270,000 Florida residents are infected with hepatitis C virus and most a are not aware of their infection. The state legislature recognized the importance of chronic hepatitis prevention and control in the 1999 session by appropriating $2.5 million towards development of the beginning of a comprehensive hepatitis and liver failure prevention and control program. The purpose of this program is the prevention of viral hepatitis in people at high risk through primary and secondary prevention activities. This program will establish an enhanced surveillance program and hepatitis registry. It will develop statewide education for the public as well as health care professionals. It will also fund a limited number of county-based comprehensive hepatitis prevention and control projects. Components of these projects include: a) enhanced surveillance to document the burden of disease and infection and identify high-risk populations; b) education of the public and health care providers so that those at risk seek screening and providers know whom to screen or test; c) vaccination of high risk adults; d) counseling and testing for the thousands of Florida residents that are at high risk of infection; as well as e) treatment for those who do not have access to life-saving therapies.
Comprehensive hepatitis and liver failure prevention and control programs are needed in state health departments. The Florida program demonstrates and early approach to developing this important public health program.
Learning Objectives: Describe the components of the Hepatitis and Liver Failure Prevention and Control Program. Assess the program strengths and weaknesses. Understand future program directions
Keywords: Hepatitis C, Prevention
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.