Homeless hit by Hepatitis
A recent study initiated by the Institute of Sciences and Oxford University has shown that one in four homeless people in Oxford are infected with Hepatitis C, posing a major public health concern.
The study, carried out by Luke Sheriff and Dr Richad Mayon-White, has shown that inadequate diets, poor hygiene and high levels of intravenous drug use have lead to the high numbers of homeless people that tested positive for the virus when screened.
Oxford is now the second most highly affected area in Britain; unsurprising, given that it is also the city with the highest recorded number of rough sleepers outside of the capital.
There are currently between 2,500 and 3,000 people in Oxford classified 'homeless' by Emmaus, a charity operating in the city. Whilst not all of these people may actually live on the streets, the often cramped and squalid conditions in which many 'squatters' find themselves create a ready environment in which the virus can spread.
Of the 98 individuals of the Oxford homeless community who were interviewed and tested for HCV, the results gave an estimated HCV prevalence of 26.5 percent.
Last year over 600 people died on the streets of England and Wales. Sheriff and Dr Mayon-White have argued that the particular prevalence of Hepatitis amongst the homeless community demonstrates the need for action by local authorities, as the "risk factors could all be targeted to reduce this prevalence."
Although provision for the homeless in Oxford is good, with several homeless shelters already in operation, "there is always more that could be done," according to Dr Mayon-White.
"Hopefully the publication of these findings will increase enthusiasm in the health service to provide for this vulnerable group," he added.
29th Apr 2004