Native Council of Prince Edward Island(Status, Non-Status and Métis)

6 F.J. McAulay CourtCHARLOTTETOWN, P.E.I. C1A 9M7

Phone (902) 892-5314 Fax (902) 368-7464 Toll Free 1-877-591-3003

World Hepatitis Day in PEIJuly 28, 2015

All About Understanding and PreventingHepatitis C has a growing number of Islanders becoming infected with the disease due to intravenous drug use; a situation that has drawn many concerns throughout the island. Hepatitis C is a blood-borne virus which attacks the liver. Hep C is mainly spread through the sharing of needles but can also be spread by sharing straws when sniffing or snorting drugs. It is a disease that is now affecting a younger population than ever before on P.E.I. At least 50 per cent of those infected are between the ages of 20 and 30. Eighty-five per cent of those who become infected with Hepatitis C will develop chronic long-term liver infections that will last for the remainder of their lives. The Hep’d Up On Life program offered through the Native Council of PEI provides information and assistance with those living with Hepatitis C or those looking for preventative information.

The Native Council of PEI, in cooperation with Aids PEI and Healing Our Nations, would like to talk about the Hepatitis Virus and educate Islanders as to what they can do to prevent or manage this growing disease. On World Hepatitis Day, July 28, 2015, we are partnering for an information sharing session. Together we want to assist our community in becoming more aware of the disease and answering any questions about it which could include: What are the symptoms of the Hepatitis C virus? How does it spread? Where can you get tested for it? What are the treatment options?

On July 27-28 Hep’d Up on Life will be holding a peer training program from Healing Our Nations for 8 youth from the community who will be able to share this crucial information with others. On July 27th the training will take place from 10:00am – 4:00pm and July 28th from 9:00am – 1:00pm. So if you have a youth that is interested in learning more, be sure to email stephanie@ncpei.com, or call 902-892-5314 to register. Come join us as we celebrate World Hepatitis Day on July 28, 2015. The Native Council will be holding a free BBQ from 12:00 – 1:00pm. The day will be full of information and also help to gather information, learn about various programs available on PEI, ask questions, and to enjoy the company of Islanders in a very relaxed setting.

Hepatitis C is being ignored around the world, and we are calling for change. Let’s make a difference on PEI and start talking about it.

For more information, contact:

Hep’d up on Life CoordinatorStephanie Stanger P: (902) 892-5314 F: (902) 368-7464 E: stephanie@ncpei.comwww.ncpei.com