Experts at the International Rotary Convention call for action to eliminate hepatitis

Over 80 enthusiastic international Rotarians attended a panel discussion to learn about viral hepatitis on Monday 29 May, organised by LiverWELL together with partner organisations.

CThe International Rotary Convention in Melbourne in May saw over 12,000 Rotarians gather to “Imagine the Future” and 80 enthusiastic international Rotarians participated in a lively panel discussion to learn about global efforts to eliminate viral hepatitis.

Chaired by LiverWELL CEO Elaine Montegriffo, the panel of experts included Professor Margaret Hellard and Professor Ben Cowie, together with lived experience speakers Frank Carlus and Nafisa Yussf who shared their personal journeys of living with viral hepatitis.

Rotarians were encouraged to raise awareness, campaign with their club in their community and advocate for Rotary International to support local, national and global End Hepatitis Now campaigns.

A Q&A was held with the audience – focusing on the prevalence of hepatitis in carceral settings, and how the hepatitis B vaccine could be rolled out to remote communities. Delegates were keen to learn about the development of a vaccine for hepatitis C, the impact of COVID-19 on the public perception of vaccines, and how healthy living behaviors help us to take care of our livers.

The event was very successful in raising awareness and we thank our panel members and attendees.