Eliminating hepatitis C virus (HCV) in Australia is now a possibility, with the listing of direct-acting antiviral (DAA) drugs on the PBS. But this is one step in the path towards elimination.

Burnet will also make a major contribution in global efforts to eliminate hepatitis B & C as major health threats. This includes supporting vital research underway by our researchers to create a novel, effective, low-cost HCV vaccine suitable for resource-constrained countries.

Burnet Institute’s Eliminate Viral Hepatitis strategy is focussed on:

• Achieving a 50 percent reduction in hepatitis C prevalence in Australia by 2020.
• Supporting the achievement of the WHO’s hepatitis C elimination targets in Australia before 2030 with key partners.
• Working towards Global WHO viral hepatitis elimination strategy by addressing diagnosis, delivery of direct-acting antivirals, prevention and vaccine development.

Working together, with research organisations, governments, the community and affected populations, Burnet will help change the course of hepatitis C infection and its impact as a public health threat.

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) affects more than 250,000 Australians resulting in up to 630 deaths from liver cancer and liver failure each year. Globally, more than 500,000 people die from HCV-related causes.

The ambitious journey to eliminate viral hepatitis has begun.