2011-12-21 Events
CRI's community-based service for Hepatitis C in Stoke celebrated the treatment of 100 service users at an event in December.
The service screens and treats Hepatitis C, a disease that can be contracted by anyone who comes into contact with contaminated blood products through drug paraphernalia, including needles, spoons, filters, razors, toothbrushes, bank notes and tattoos. This is an integral component of the recovery work being delivered in Stoke. In 15 months, CRI in Stoke has treated 100 service users of which 43 are now completely clear of the disease, the remainder are either still receiving treatment or are awaiting their final blood test.
Lisa Nagington, clinical nurse specialist in Stoke, said: "The event was an emotional day with the launch of a DVD that shows service users who have been treated and are clear of the disease.
"We wanted to celebrate this and raise awareness of Hepatitis C to try to get more people to come forward for screening. We featured in the local paper and there was lots of interest in the day."
The service demonstrates the broad range of CRI's offer, while needle exchange is a widely known and accepted element of working with substance users, CRI's work with Hepatitis C sufferers complements the preventative measures with treatment for those who are infected.
All media enquiries should be directed to:
Telephone: 020 7833 6729
Mobile: 07500 928091
Email: kevin.perlmutter@cri.org.uk
Telephone: 020 7833 6718
Mobile: 07584 041008
Email: seema.khistaria@cri.org.uk
