New CDC Viral Hepatitis Reports on US Surveillance in 2021 and on Progress Toward Reaching National Elimination Goals
“The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has published the Viral Hepatitis Surveillance Report— United States, 2021 and the 2023 Viral Hepatitis National Progress Report. These reports contain hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C surveillance and mortality data that inform the Nation’s viral hepatitis response and monitor progress towards achieving established national viral hepatitis elimination goals of reducing viral hepatitis infections and related mortality and disparities.
Rates of acute hepatitis C have doubled from 2014 to 2021 and continue to climb, with an estimated 69,800 acute hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections in 2021; injection drug use was the most commonly reported risk factor. More than half of acute hepatitis C cases progress to chronic infection, and over 107,000 newly reported chronic cases were reported in 2021, with the highest rates among adults aged 30-59 years.”
Striving for a Healthier Future: Combating HIV and Hepatitis C Coinfection
“Hepatitis C is a significant public health concern affecting an estimated 71 million people worldwide. In the U.S. alone, it is estimated that approximately 2.4 million individuals are living with chronic hepatitis C. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 21% of people with HIV in the U.S. also have hepatitis C.”
Iran providing free treatment for Hepatitis C
“TEHRAN- Saeid Karimi, the deputy minister of health, has said that free treatment for hepatitis C is provided for patients in the country. “We hope to eliminate hepatitis C from the country with insurance coverage and other efficient measures,” IRNA quoted Karimi as saying.”
