More than 300,000 professionals trained in hepatitis C detection and treatment
People with this disease can receive free care at health centers and clinics
Alethse de la Torre Rosas, Director, National Center for AIDS Prevention and Control (Censida)
Author: HT Agency
mexico city. – Over the past two years, more than 2 million hepatitis C virus (HCV) tests have been carried out, and more than 300,000 professionals have been trained; similarly, more than 30,000 treatments have been provided for the disease, which can be cured within two months, and the National AIDS The Director of the Center for Prevention and Control (Censida) told us, Alesse de la Torre Rosas.
during his activities 1st Health Sector Interagency Command International Summit (COISS)De la Torre Rosas announced the start of the 2020 implementation of the National Hepatitis C Elimination Plan, a free and multisectoral program aimed at providing healthcare for the infection, which affects around 700,000 people in Mexico.
The plan was developed with the participation of the health sector, community leaders, clinicians and academics, and Mexico is expected to report to the World Health Organization (WHO) for the first time this year on its progress in eliminating viral hepatitis, the Health Ministry civil servant reported.
The people-centred plan is the result of a historic change in the country, as it changed the vision of the treatment programme: no longer would it be offered to only certain people, but to those diagnosed positive. Hepatitis C virus; therefore, direct-acting antiviral drugs are given.
The strategy is based on testing, treatment and medical care by first-level professionals to facilitate access to and action for high-risk populations, such as those infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), deprived of their liberty, including those who use injecting psychoactive substances. people and immigrants.
“We can’t talk about eliminating public health problems if we don’t talk about policies for people deprived of their liberty, people who use drugs, or factors like mental health, infection control, etc.’, he emphasized.
He stressed the need to raise awareness about the infection and asked health professionals to know about viral hepatitis elimination programs and universal and free treatment.
Diagnosis is simple, he said: A patient arrives at a primary care unit or health center, is tested and the results are available within minutes. If positive, provide diagnostic confirmation and provide treatment. “Caring for a person with hepatitis C is easier than caring for someone with diabetes and high blood pressure,” and both conditions require specialized care, he said.
The program builds healthcare based on health agency viral hepatitis guidelines https://bit.ly/3ErnFTu It contains guidance on counseling, screening, diagnosis, treatment and medical follow-up.
“If we continue with this strategy, we will be able to eliminate hepatitis within a few years, but not only: the number of deaths, cases of cirrhosis and costs to the health system, as well as the individual and societal benefits of avoiding a condition that disproportionately affects patients and thus the entire family life“.
He called on those with risk factors to request hepatitis C testing. Those requiring more information or guidance on this infection can call 55 1946 9772, or email hepatitis@salud.gob.mx. You can also call Lifeline on 800 911 2000, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.