In the lead-up to World Hepatitis Day on July 28, The Hepatitis Foundation of New Zealand (HFNZ) is intensifying its outreach efforts to raise awareness about hepatitis B, particularly in rural areas. This year, HFNZ community nurses will be visiting rural general practices (GP) clinics throughout New Zealand to provide education and awareness about hepatitis B.
“Rural communities can be harder to reach with health information,” says Sarah Davey, CE of The Hepatitis Foundation of New Zealand. “By sending our nurses to rural GP clinics, we hope to bridge this gap and ensure that everyone has access to potentially lifesaving information about hepatitis B.”
“Our mission is clear: to eliminate Hepatitis B in New Zealand. With a cure on the horizon, our goal is to identify every New Zealander living with this virus. Our database of over 19,000 individuals is a significant step, but we know there are many more out there. Together, we can create a future free from Hepatitis B."
Our nurses are completing over 100 visits to rural GP practices over the months of July and August.
Hepatitis B is endemic to New Zealand, almost 94,000 people are estimated to have hepatitis B, with around 60-70% unaware they are infected. Many people with hepatitis B don't experience symptoms until the liver is already damaged. Early detection is crucial, as effective treatments are available.
"Hepatitis B is a silent killer affecting thousands of New Zealanders. While the prospect of a cure is incredibly promising, prevention and early detection remain our top priorities. By expanding our database and raising awareness, we can ensure that everyone has the opportunity to live a healthy life free from Hepatitis B." Professor Ed Gane
Who is at risk of Hepatitis B?
Anyone over 35 years of age
Especially Māori, Pacific Island or South Asian ethnicity
Born outside New Zealand, from a high risk country
Have a mother or close family member with hepatitis B
Live with someone who has hepatitis B
Have ever had unprotected sexual contact with an HBV infected person
Have ever injected drugs
Have received a tattoo using unsterilised equipment.
Free Testing Available
The Hepatitis Foundation urges anyone who considers themselves at risk to get tested. Testing is simple and often available through a GP. Or you can contact the foundation to book a test 0800 33 20 10 or hepteam@hfnz.nz
About the Hepatitis Foundation of New Zealand
The Hepatitis Foundation of New Zealand (HFNZ) is a charitable trust, contracted to Health New Zealand to provide a health monitoring programme that supports people living with hepatitis B.
World Hepatitis Day
World Hepatitis Day is one of only thirteen official disease-specific world health days recognised by the World Health Organisation. Every year on July 28th, millions of people around the world participate in raising awareness about viral hepatitis and advocating for improved access to treatment, prevention programs, and government action.
The Rt Hon Helen Clark, former Prime Minister of New Zealand and former United Nations Development Programme administrator, Patron for the foundation "New Zealand has the potential to be a world leader in eliminating Hepatitis B. Our progress in identifying those affected is commendable, but we must continue to build on this momentum. By working together, we can create a healthier future for all New Zealanders.
