Free ‘Hep C’ tests available in Burnie
Did you know that a simple blood test is your first step towards treatment that will cure you of Hepatitis C?
Registered Nurse Megan Hughes from Sexual Health Tasmania will perform blood testing in a welcoming, confidential environment at Anglicare’s Needle and Syringe Program (NSP) outlet in Burnie every Friday in December. You don’t need an appointment or a referral. All you need to bring is your Medicare card and a mobile phone that we can contact you on about your results. Everyone who participates will receive a $20 voucher.
What is ‘Hep C?
“‘Hep C’ is a blood-borne virus that damages a person’s liver,” Megan explains. “The virus can be transmitted through the sharing of injecting equipment or if you get a tattoo done with equipment that hasn’t been sterilised, but it’s important to understand that any blood-to-blood contact carries this risk.
“Symptoms can include tiredness, trouble sleeping, mood swings, anxiety and depression, nausea and poor appetite but it’s also possible to live with the virus without feeling sick, so the earlier you seek treatment the better,” she said.
“If you return a positive test, we’ll find out more about your liver health and give you a prescription for either an eight or 12 week course of one tablet a day that you can take straight to a pharmacy.”
What: FREE testing for the Hepatitis C virus
When: 1.00 p.m. – 4.00 p.m. every FRIDAY in December 2021
Where: The Needle and Syringe Program (NSP) outlet at Anglicare, 51 Wilmot Street, Burnie
Who: Anyone at risk of developing Hepatitis C, even if you don’t display any symptoms.
Do you need transport to get to Burnie?
Transport is available on request but it must be booked prior to the testing dates. Please call Anglicare on 1800 243 232 and ask to speak with Sean Robinson.
