2 May 2023

The Addictions Recovery Community (ARC) Hounslow is thrilled to announce that they have achieved Hepatitis C micro-elimination in their local community. Ahead of schedule and well in advance of the UK government's target of 2025 and the World Health Organisation target of 2030. This is a significant milestone in the fight against this viral infection that affects the liver possibly causing cirrhosis, cancer, co- morbidity and mortality if left untreated. 

This wonderful news was announced at the West London DST Elimination Event at the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) which was attended by some members of the ARC Hounslow team – Taruna Rampersad (Sector Manager), Darja Golob (CNWL Data and Performance Lead) and Eugenia Moyo (Addiction Nurse Practitioner).

Hepatitis C  elimination means targeted elimination of Hepatitis C Virus in a specific local population. In April 2023 there were no new cases of the disease in the community. It is a remarkable achievement that requires a coordinated effort from all stakeholders, and the Hounslow team has worked tirelessly to provide testing and treatment to those in need in fiercely strong collaboration with Hepatology and Hep C Trust and Hep C U Later colleagues – Professor Ashley Brown (National Clinical Lead for NHSE and West London Operational Delivery Network(ODN) ) Matthew Foxton (Hepatology Consultant), Christine Taylor (Senior Patient Access to Care Gilead) and Louise Hansford (South Coordinator, Hep C U later programme) Jennifer Hannon (Hepatology Clinical Nurse Specialist), Christine Lutzu and Faye Martin  (Hep C Trust peers) Christopher Heaps and Robert Fair (Hep C U later Data Analyst).

Eliminating Hepatitis C is no small feat, a whole team approach contributed to this achievement and ARC Hounslow success is a testament to their hard work, determination, and commitment to improving the health and wellbeing of their local community. The Hounslow team's accomplishment is a cause for celebration and serves as an inspiration for others to join the fight against Hepatitis C and other health challenges that affect our communities.

Teresa Wirz, Head of Addictions at CNWL, said

"The Hounslow team's achievement in reaching Hepatitis C elimination ahead of schedule and well in advance of the UK government's target of 2025 is a significant milestone in the fight against this viral infection. It is a testament to their hard work, dedication, and commitment to improving the health and wellbeing of their local community. The team's success also highlights the importance of setting ambitious targets in tackling global health challenges. Congratulations to the Hounslow team on their incredible achievement"