Boseong-gun Launches Full-Scale 'Hepatitis C Eradication Project'

Free Testing for First 600 Residents Aged 20 and Over on a First-Come, First-Served Basis

Boseong-gun, Jeollanam-do has officially launched the ‘Hepatitis C Eradication Project’ to provide free antibody testing for residents to enable early detection and treatment of Hepatitis C.

This project will be conducted on a first-come, first-served basis for 600 adults aged 20 and over residing in the area. Hepatitis C will be confirmed through a primary antibody test and a secondary blood test, and those with a median income of 130% or less who have lived in the area for more than one year may also be eligible for treatment cost support.

[Photo by Boseong-gun]

‘Hepatitis C’ is mainly transmitted through blood. In particular, there is a risk of infection through contact with contaminated items such as reused contaminated syringes, sexual contact, piercing, and tattooing processes.

Additionally, there is no preventive vaccine, and it is not included in the national health screening, making diagnosis difficult. 60-80% of cases show no symptoms, and infection cannot be detected without testing. If left untreated, it can cause inflammation of the liver and lead to acute and chronic liver diseases, classified as a Class 3 infectious disease.

To prevent bloodborne infectious diseases like Hepatitis C, personal hygiene management is important, including ‘not sharing personal hygiene items,’ ‘avoiding unhygienic procedures,’ and ‘getting tested for early detection.’

A health center official stated, “Hepatitis C often shows no symptoms in the early stages, so early detection and treatment are crucial.” They added, “We ask for the residents’ great interest and participation in the ‘Hepatitis C Eradication Project.’”

Boseong = Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters, Reporter Park Cheon-seok hss79@asiae.co.kr