Increase in Demand for Hepatitis C Tests Following Contaminated Blood Scandal

The recent revelation of hundreds unknowingly infected with hepatitis C in the UK has led to a surge in demand for tests. Hepatitis C Trust reports up to 27,000 contracted the virus through contaminated blood transfusions, with an additional 1,700 undiagnosed. Left untreated, hepatitis C can lead to chronic liver disease and be fatal. The charity has seen a significant increase in requests for home-testing kits, emphasizing the importance of identifying and treating those unaware of their infection status. Chancellor Jeremy Hunt is expected to announce a compensation package for those impacted by the scandal, following the release of the final report from the infected blood inquiry.