The prevalence of HCV infection is highest amongst those born during that time-frame.
The Health Information & Quality Authority recommends that people born between 1965 and 1985 undergo testing for Hepatitis C.
In Ireland, the prevalence of HCV infection is highest amongst those born during that time-frame.
Of the 1.5 million people in this cohort, it is estimated that one in every 100 may have chronic HCV infection.
We have just published our Health Technology Assessment (HTA) recommending the introduction of once-off testing for the Hepatitis C virus (HCV) to people in Ireland born between 1965 and 1985. You can find out more here: https://t.co/zQJFyRia11 pic.twitter.com/qc8l3SwHBW
— HIQA (@HIQA) July 29, 2021
HIQA has advised the Minister for Health that implementation of a birth cohort testing programme would be "cost-effective and help Ireland achieve its HCV elimination goals. Following a public consultation, the HTA of birth cohort testing for hepatitis C was approved by the Board of HIQA and has been submitted to the Minister for Health for his consideration."
Dr Máirín Ryan, HIQA’s Deputy CEO and Director of Health Technology Assessment joined Ciara Noble on Friday's edition of Kildare Today.
We found that the tests available to diagnose chronic HCV infection are highly accurate. Furthermore, treatments are safe and effective, with over 95% of people treated being cured of their infection.
— HIQA (@HIQA) July 29, 2021

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