New York is establishing a Hepatitis C Elimination Task Force that will advise the state on a plan to eliminate the infection.
"The members selected for this task force are some of the finest in their fields, and their invaluable experience will provide us with the information we need to develop an attainable elimination plan," Governor Andrew Cuomo said. "This strategic plan will not only improve the quality of life for those living with Hepatitis C, but also ensure that New Yorkers have the support and resources they need to prevent this disease."
According to the Governor's Office, more than 100,000 New Yorkers are living with Hepatitis C. It's a liver disease caused by the Hepatitis C virus, and most are unaware they have it.
The creation of a new Task Force will be supplemented by five work groups including prevention, testing, treatment, surveillance and social determinants.
In July, Governor Cuomo allocated $5 million for hepatitis C services.
