Impact of New Viral Strains and Hepatitis Management in Australia

The chapter explores the rise in hospitalizations due to severe illnesses caused by new viral strains in Australia, underscoring the importance of effective therapeutics in preventing fatalities. It delves into the prevalence and management of hepatitis, focusing on hepatotropic viruses like hepatitis A, B, and C, their causes, effective treatments like Direct Acting Antivirals (DAAs), and the shift towards empowering primary care practitioners to prescribe these medications for better patient outcomes. The discussion also addresses the need for education and treatment expansion in rural and remote areas, particularly within Indigenous communities, to combat hepatitis disparities across different regions.