May 2015 Recognized as Hepatitis C Awareness Month: Chicago Lawmaker Continues to Bring the “Silent Epidemic” to the Forefront

Springfield, IL … Yesterday, the Illinois House of Representatives adopted House Resolution 214 which designates next month as "Hepatitis C Awareness Month. The initiative, which was led by State Representative Michael McAuliffe (R-Chicago), received unanimous support as it continues to shine light upon a disease which, up until recently, received very little attention.

"Hepatitis C has been affecting people for decades. However, due to a lack of awareness, there is large segment of the population that is considered at-risk of having unknowingly contracted the virus," explained McAuliffe. "Hepatitis C became known as the 'Silent Epidemic' due to a general lack of knowledge of the at-risk groups and treatment options, and in recent years, the medical community has identified veterans of the Vietnam-era and anyone born between the years of 1945 and 1965 to be at increased risk of carrying the virus."

McAuliffe has been a leader in tackling awareness, treatment and prevention issues for the Hepatitis C virus since 2013 when he pioneered the creation of the Hepatitis C Task Force in Springfield. The task force, which was the first of its kind in Illinois, was inspired by his own personal story of how he saw the effects of the disease on close family members. Since its creation, the bipartisan task force members have successfully recommended thoughtful legislation. The group was recently recognized by the House for their positive work by receiving an extension to continue their work until 2017.

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From the community: McAuliffe Looks to Keep Hepatitis C Taskforce Working: Veteran Lawmaker Sees More Work Ahead for Productive Group

Springfield, IL … State Representative Michael McAuliffe (R-Chicago) is looking to keep the important work of the Illinois Hepatitis C Task Force rolling by extending the groups charter as set by the Illinois General Assembly as established in May of 2013.

"Many times, task forces here in Springfield just don't take off or gain any traction," said McAuliffe. "In this case, the interest and productivity of this group has exceeded all expectations. We met consistently and produced a number of solid legislative recommendations which is why I feel it's important to keep it going."

The group, which first met in February of 2014, has met consistently on a bi-monthly basis and has produced a multitude legislative initiatives aimed at curbing the growing issue of Hepatitis C in our veteran and senior communities. The group has also hosted Hepatitis C Day at the State Capitol which provides informational displays and brings leading medical experts and free screenings to our State's capitol.

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