Lawmakers and Advocates Ban Together to Fight Silent Public Health Epidemic

Hepatitis C Task Force leads charge to raise awareness about life threatening virus targeting baby boomers...

Legislators are bringing awareness to the dangers of Hepatitis C in Springfield by partnering with community advocates and Hepatitis C experts to promote screenings for those who are at risk and are working to ensure access to treatment for those who need it.

State Representative Michael McAuliffe (R-Chicago), chairman of the Hepatitis C Task Force is sponsoring House Resolution 214 to explain the dangers of the silent epidemic that is Hepatitis C. The resolution also declares May as Hepatitis C Awareness Month.

Because of the significant health implications from Hepatitis C, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends a one-time screening for all baby boomers (those born between 1945-1965).

“Baby boomers have the highest at risk factors for Hepatitis C, but we are seeing an upswing in the younger population due to an increase in Heroin use,” McAuliffe said. “Because about 75% of the infected population is unaware that they are infected with Hepatitis C, screenings are incredibly important.” Read more.