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on 28 July 2014 kicks off a national hepatitis awareness campaign. This year’s campaign theme focuses on liver check-ups.

Every year, close to 1000 Australians die from hepatitis B or C related causes. About 500,000 Australians live with chronic hepatitis B or C. Many don’t know it and of those who do, many are not receiving treatment or regular monitoring. If you are living with hepatitis B or C, have your liver health monitored regularly. If you don’t know whether you have hepatitis, get tested. Both hepatitis B and C can be medically managed or treated. There is a safe and effective vaccine for hepatitis B.

coordinates the South Australian campaign. Activities this year include a stand at Rundle Mall and at the Payneham community market, a multicultural bazaar organised in partnership with Relationships Australia’s PEACE services, information distribution at clean needle program sites and Love Your Liver lunches, dinners and barbecues by various community groups.

A highlight of the campaign will be the launch of the South Australian Government’s Hepatitis B Action Plan.

 offers small grants to community groups who wish to organise hepatitis awareness activities as part of the World Hepatitis Day campaign, but may not have the budget to do so. If yours is such an organisation, give us a call on 08 8362 8443 or email cecilia@hepsa.asn.au.

 is a non-profit, community-based organisation which aims to meet the needs of people with, or affected by, hepatitis B or C. Our services include a telephone information line, support groups, printed information and resources and education sessions to community as well as workforce. We also manage a of freely and instantly accessible hepatitis-related resources. All  services are free.