Screening for HCV

Infectious diseases Active campaign

Screening for HCV

Target:
People born between 1969 and 1989, temporary aliens (STP), SerD addiction treatment centre users, prison inmates

Hepatitis C (HCV) is called an “invisible” disease because it has no specific symptoms. Actually, many people test positive to the virus without even realising they have it. Despite not seeing HCV, it can be treated, so the regional government of Puglia is engaged in promoting a free population screening programme to identify hepatitis C virus infections.  
To get involved, you’ll need to take a screening test for the HCV virus, which could be a blood sample, a rapid capillary or a saliva test.

If you were born between 1 January 1969 and 31 December 1989, your local health authority (ASL) might be in touch by phone, text, email or through the IO public services app.
If you’re eligible, you can download the invitation letter from the dedicated service and go to a partner pharmacy or a public test lab. 
People using SerD (drug addiction centre) services, residents of therapeutic communities and prison inmates get tested when they arrive at the relevant facility, every six months or after engaging in risky behaviour. 

Documents
Further information