Patient takes Hepatitis C test

By Lara Fominoff

Quick new Hepatitis C testing available in Lethbridge – but it’s not free

Jul 23, 2019 | 3:04 PM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – A new test that can determine whether someone has Hepatitis C is available at London Drugs in Lethbridge and can give results in 20 minutes.

But the cost to take the test is $24. It’s called the OraQuick HCV rapid antibody test.

Dr. Rajveer Hundal, a Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist with Chinook Regional Hospital, and a Clinical Assistant Professor at the University of Lethbridge, those born between 1945 and 1975, or those who had blood transfusions prior to 1992 should be tested. Someone can be infected for decades without experiencing any, or very few symptoms.

“Hep C tends to be asymptomatic until it starts causing functional decline in individuals from a liver perspective. So, a lot of individuals have Hep C and may not even know about it. So, that’s where identifying conditions like this is important, because we can treat it now.”

According to the Public Health Agency of Canada, the average rate of HCV infection in Alberta is above the national average.

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London Drugs Assistant Pharmacy Manager Andrew Qwong says the stigma of hepatitis C can prevent many people from getting tested, since the virus is also associated with intravenous drug use or thought of as an incurable disease.

Waiting for results of the hepatitis c test

“Working collaboratively with doctors, we can ensure those who test positive will get the treatment and follow-up care they need,” he explained.

Dr. Hundal also says treatment now is much better than it used to be; often people diagnosed would stop their treatment because of side-effects they experienced. The cure rate is anywhere from 95 to 99 per cent.

“Over the last 5-10 years, our treatments became so much better and tolerated by patients.”

The actual test involves a simple finger prick, drawing a drop or two of blood, and then placing the test stick in a special container designed to indicate results.

Patients can call the pharmacy to book an appointment.

Testing is also available though by going to see a doctor, getting a blood requisition form and going to a lab for a blood test. However, the process generally takes days, rather than minutes.

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