“It is estimated that more than 30,000 people live with the hepatitis C virus in our country. There are likely many more people infected,” Dr. Tomasiunas added.

The doctor deemed it inexcusable that Uruguay has not managed to eradicate the disease. “We have tried to promote eradication campaigns, including the Hepatitis C-Free Cities program, which generates different diagnostic tests in the cities and towns to detect positive cases.”

He pointed out that with the National Resources Fund, universal coverage of effective drugs has been achieved.

The hepatitis C virus is a almost silent infection because many cases are generally asymptomatic. Once the symptoms begin, there is little to be done if adequate treatment is not established.

The disease generates serious complications such as cirrhosis, cancer, liver failure, and increased mortality in the population, the expert pointed out.

jg/iff/rgh/ool