Oxfordshire people urged to get tested for hepatitis

Specialists at Oxford University Hospitals (OUH) are raising awareness of hepatitis B and C ahead of World Hepatitis Day on Tuesday, July 28.

Both infections can remain undetected for years, often without symptoms, but can lead to serious liver disease, liver scarring and liver cancer if left untreated.

Lizi Sims, hepatology community nurse manager at OUH, said: “Many people with hepatitis B or hepatitis C don’t realise they have the infection because there are often no symptoms in the early stages – it can be silent, until they present with late disease.

“Testing is simple, and early diagnosis can make a huge difference. Effective treatments are available to control hepatitis B infection, and for hepatitis C, many patients can be cured.”

Globally, around 287 million people are living with hepatitis B or C, with more than 1.3 million deaths each year.

In Oxfordshire, almost 400 people are currently receiving treatment for hepatitis B.

Some 187 people across the Thames Valley were treated for hepatitis C during 2025/26, according to specialists.

The OUH Hepatology Community team will host an information stand at the John Radcliffe Hospital on Level 2 on Tuesday, July 28, from 8.30am to 4.30pm.

Staff and visitors will be able to learn more about hepatitis and access information on testing and treatment.