"A mericans no longer suffer from polio, measles, and smallpox; we have eliminated those diseases. In that spirit, we intend to ensure that no American suffers from viral hepatitis.”
Opening statement of Eliminating Hepatitis: A Call to Action.

The National Viral Hepatitis Roundtable (NVHR) launched the first-ever national strategic plan to eliminate viral hepatitis in the U.S. to coincide with May Hepatitis Awareness Month. The coalition of more than 100 organizations, of which the Hepatitis B Foundation is a charter member, worked together for the past two years to discuss and debate the best way to stop the unnecessary suffering and death caused by viral hepatitis.

The result - Eliminating Hepatitis: A Call to Action - is a comprehensive roadmap for winning the battle against viral hepatitis, and is intended for those who have a role in influencing the course of public policies.

Who is the National Viral Hepatitis Roundtable? The NVHR includes hepatitis advocacy groups, medical and nursing associations, public health agencies, drug treatment programs, AIDS and STD networks, correctional organizations, insurers, and biopharmaceutical companies.

Eliminating Hepatitis: A Call to Action focuses on four primary recommendations:

1. Build the Capacity to Address the Challenges of Viral Hepatitis

2. Vaccinate America to Eliminate Vaccine-Preventable Viral Hepatitis

3. Counsel, Test and Refer Persons At Risk for Viral Hepatitis to Inform Them About How to Reduce Their Risks

4. Care for Persons with Chronic Hepatitis and Help Them Participate in the Management of Their Condition

BInformed, Summer 2006.