Hepatitis Can't Wait: Eliminating Hepatitis B by 2030

This year's World Hepatitis Day on July 28 is dedicated to the theme "We're Not Waiting," urging immediate action to combat hepatitis globally. The Multicultural HIV and Hepatitis Service (MHAHS) is supporting the cause by promoting the booklet "Hepatitis B. It's Family Business," available in multiple languages for diverse communities.

Professor Benjamin Cowie from the Australian WHO Collaborating Centre for Viral Hepatitis emphasizes the urgency of hepatitis B testing, as many people may be unaware they have the condition. Without proper care, hepatitis B can lead to liver cancer, causing a death every 30 seconds worldwide.

Australia faces a significant hepatitis B challenge, with around 200,385 people living with chronic hepatitis B, predominantly among those born overseas. The "Are you living with hepatitis B? Find Out. Get Tested" campaign encourages diverse communities to prioritize liver health and get tested, offering information in various languages.

The campaign aims to empower individuals with culturally relevant knowledge to make informed choices and take action. Community members are urged to consult doctors for hepatitis B testing, and those with a Medicare card can access free testing. Individuals without a Medicare Card can contact NSW Health Sexual Health Clinics for free testing. All conversations with doctors remain confidential.

For more information on the campaign, contact Sonam Paljor on 0436 649 000 or email Alamat email ini dilindungi dari robot spam. Anda memerlukan Javascript yang aktif untuk melihatnya..

Celebrating 30 Years of Pozhet

The Multicultural HIV and Hepatitis Service (MHAHS) is thrilled to commend Pozhet for its remarkable work over the last 30 years!

Pozhet has been a strong advocate driving a multitude of initiatives aimed at raising awareness about HIV and providing vital support to those living with the virus. Through the creation of many informative factsheets, captivating videos, and engaging animations like "One in Ten," "Heading Overseas," and "Heterosexuals and HIV: Visibility," Pozhet engages communities, breaking down stigma around HIV.  

One pivotal milestone has been when Pozhet and MHAHS supported each other to navigate the social media to reach the wider public. Together, we have harnessed the power of platforms such as Facebook, reaching wider communities and cultivating an environment of open dialogue, empathy, and support.

The impact of Pozhet's work reaches far beyond the printed page or the digital realm. It is their compassion and care that forms the foundation of their initiatives, creating safe spaces and empowering those affected by HIV. Their efforts have brought hope, comfort, and a sense of belonging to countless individuals, their families, and communities across the state.

As we celebrate Pozhet's remarkable 30-year commitment, MHAHS extends heartfelt congratulations and sincere appreciation for our invaluable partnership. We eagerly anticipate many more years of collaboration, as we continue to educate, support, and strive towards a society free from the stigma and discrimination surrounding HIV. Here's to a bright future filled with shared achievements and improved well-being for all those living with HIV.

Hepatitis B Support Network: Get Free Online Help at HepBCommunity.org

HepBCommunity.org is a specialised online platform where people with Hepatitis B can find free support and information. The platform was created by Associate Professor Thomas Tu from Westmead Institute for Medical Research and Professor Jacob George, Head of Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology at Westmead Hospital and Sydney West Local Health District.

At HepBCommunity.org, you can access useful resources and get support related to your hepatitis B diagnosis wherever you are. What's great is that there are experienced doctors and researchers on the forum who can help you with your lab results, dietary advice, lifestyle changes, and much more. You can ask any questions you have and receive personalized responses from these professionals and fellow members who are going through similar experiences. 

Contact HepBCommunity.org today to connect with a supportive network that understands your journey with hepatitis B. It's a place where you can get the help you need, for free, from experts and people who care.

Diverse Communities Urged to Get Tested for HIV During Testing Week

The Multicultural HIV and Hepatitis Service (MHAHS) is urging diverse communities to get tested for HIV during HIV Testing Week. About 9% of people with HIV in Australia are unaware of their status, making testing crucial for eliminating HIV transmission by 2030.

Barbara Luisi, Director of MHAHS, highlights the accessibility of HIV testing options. These options include Rapid HIV Testing, Home-based Testing, and Dried Blood Spot Testing. For more information, visit https://mhahs.org.au/index.php/en/hiv/testing-options.

MHAHS is also promoting their award-winning e-booklet, "HIV: What You Need to Know," which provides essential information about HIV, testing, treatment, and living with HIV. It can be downloaded at https://mhahs.org.au/index.php/en/hiv/hiv-what-you-need-to-know.

For those preferring private testing, Dried Blood Spot (DBS) testing is available for online ordering at https://mhahs.org.au/index.php/en/hiv/testing-for-hiv-at-home. DBS testing is user-friendly and provides accurate results within days.

MHAHS is conducting a multimedia campaign in 10 communities, featuring a toolkit with HIV booklets, videos, radio announcements, and social media tiles. This toolkit aims to support organizations and individuals in promoting HIV testing and awareness in their communities. For more information, visit https://www.mhahs.org.au/index.php/en/dbs-kit.

For further inquiries, contact Sonam Paljor at 0436 649 000 or email Alamat email ini dilindungi dari robot spam. Anda memerlukan Javascript yang aktif untuk melihatnya..