HEALTH chiefs fear too few people know about the symptoms, dangers and treatment of Hepatitis C.

While four in five say they know what the virus is, less than 40 per cent knew it infects the liver and under a third that it is curable, according to a new survey commissioned by charity the Hepatitis C Trust.

Doctors and campaigners want more people to be aware of the virus, whose sufferers often experience few or no symptoms. The condition, which can lead to liver failure, is transmitted through blood-to-blood contact like sharing drug equipment, tattooing needles or even breast feeding.

Rachel Halford, chief executive of the Hepatitis C Trust said ahead of Hepatitis C Day tomorrow: “With revolutionary new treatments available to all through the NHS, this new data shows clearly that the greatest challenges to tackling Hepatitis C are dispelling misconceptions, raising awareness and minimising barriers to testing and treatment.

“We want to see treatment available in all community settings, including pharmacies, drug and alcohol services, sexual health services and primary care. There’s no reason that testing cannot be conducted by any trained service worker, and community outreach will be essential to ensuring all those currently undiagnosed are tested, treated and cured."

In Swindon, there are an estimated 2,000 people living with the condition. Support group Hep C Positive offers help and advice for those who have been diagnosed with hepatitis.

The group was set up seven years ago by musician Phil Spalding. He told the Adver last year: “One of the very first things we needed to do was educate people and we could do that by having a group where people could come without feeling ashamed, meet like-minded people and realise they weren’t alone with the condition.”

For more, visit: www.hepcpositive.org.uk.