Mobile testing provides healthcare boost for homeless people in Leamington

Homeless people and current or past injecting drug users in Leamington Spa are being encouraged to look after their health by finding out if they have the Hepatitis C virus (HCV).

HCV is common amongst homeless people. Homeless people are more likely to experience ill health than the general population and a lack of a permanent address often creates additional barriers to treatment.

To help improve care, South Warwickshire NHS Foundation Trust, with support from University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, is providing a testing ‘bus’ by the Pump Room Gardens bandstand on Tuesday 17th December from 10am to 4pm.

The test for HCV is simple and just involves a finger prick. The bus will then return a few weeks later to give people their results and any medication.

While people might be scared to find out they are infected, the virus is easy to treat by taking tablets. You don’t have to be registered with a GP or have an address to take the test.

The virus is carried in the blood and primarily affects liver function. A healthy liver is essential for good health. If left untreated, HCV can cause complications with the liver such as scarring and cancer, which impact on how well the liver works.

HCV is passed on through blood – to – blood contact. In the UK this is most commonly through the sharing of needles contaminated with the virus but even sharing razors or toothbrushes with an infected person could pass on the virus. Symptoms of HCV can include; tiredness, feeling sick and stomach pains.

Many people with HCV don't have any symptoms and are unaware they have the infection. They may develop symptoms later on as their liver becomes increasingly damaged. Anyone who has ever injected drugs or shared any injecting equipment could have the virus, even if their drug use was many years ago.

Commenting on the ‘bus’ initiative, Dr Helen Dillon, consultant for infectious diseases at South Warwickshire NHS Foundation Trust, said:

“The thought of finding out you have any virus can be scary but it is much better to know. The good news about Hepatitis C is that can be easily treated with a short course of tablets.

“That said, you don’t have to be homeless to become infected with Hepatitis C. We’re encouraging anyone to come and have a test to put their mind at ease. If people do test positive, they can get support and advice about treatment options”.

« Return to News