News release

Hepatitis Genotyping Tests Will Soon Be Available at QEII

Health (to Jan. 2011)

A test to help people with hepatitis C will be available at the Queen Elizabeth II Health Sciences Centre in Halifax before the end of May.

The blood test, called genotyping, identifies a patient’s specific hepatitis C strain. The information is then used to identify the most appropriate treatment. It is anticipated the test will benefit about 10 Nova Scotians per month.

"We are pleased to be able to finally provide this much needed test to Nova Scotians infected with hepatitis C," said Health Minister Jamie Muir. "The new testing will improve the treatment and outcome for people with hepatitis C."

The new test is expected to cost $40,000 in fiscal 2001-2002 to meet the immediate demand. After that, the cost is expected to drop to $20,000 per year. Funding will come from within the Department of Health.

Hepatitis C is a viral infection of the liver and is carried in the blood and body fluids. In many cases, individuals may be infected without experiencing any symptoms.

Anyone at risk of being infected with Hepatitis C should speak with their family physician. Individuals at risk include those who:

  • have a history of injection drug use (such as street drugs and steroids) involving needles shared with others;

  • in rare cases, have had sexual contact with an infected person.

  • received blood or blood products prior to June 1990. (After that date, blood was screened for Hepatitis C and the risk became very low);

  • were exposed to infection through needle stick injuries, tattoos or body piercing with contaminated equipment;

The public can take precautionary steps to avoid potential contact with hepatitis C. For example, do not share toothbrushes and razors with others. Always practise safe sex and ensure needles are clean.

People diagnosed with hepatitis C should discuss with their family physician practices to reduce the impact and transmission of the disease. Symptoms may take years or even decades to appear.

An estimated 2,400 Nova Scotians are infected with hepatitis C.

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