key: cord-0976097-n1eqse7j
authors: Crespo, Javier; Díaz-González, Álvaro; Cabezas, Joaquín
title: HCV detection is possible during SARS CoV-2 testing; and throughout COVID-19 vaccination?
date: 2021-05-07
journal: J Hepatol
DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2021.04.043
sha: 4763290b878d5d46420d085e6bcd0b4e05faa9a7
doc_id: 976097
cord_uid: n1eqse7j

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Despite notable advances in the diagnosis and treatment of hepatitis C, it remains a substantial health problem. In the absence of an effective vaccine, the key elements for HCV elimination are the reduction of risk behaviors, a wide availability of HCV screening tests and unrestricted access to treatment [1] . Unfortunately, COVID-19 pandemic has made access to diagnosis and linkage to care extremely difficult, comprising a potential barrier that could prevent from achieving the HCV elimination, as recently demonstrated [2] . However, all crises bring opportunities, and linking HCV screening to SARS-CoV-2 management throughout the screening or vaccination processes may be one of them [3] .

In this regard, we read in detail the pilot project run by Giacomelli et al. in the North of Italy demonstrating that the possibility of taking advantage of this COVID-19 painful situation is not only possible, but also feasible [4] .

The Giacomelli's study, as depicted in their letter, was designed following an opt-in protocol. This design may be conditioned by a low/moderate engagement, as it was observed in their project, with an engage rate below 50%. Nevertheless, they were able to bring out that half of those who tested positive, were unaware of their viral status. On the other hand, considering that social and health characteristics may vary across different geographical areas, the opt-out screening approach is also a useful alternative that has been proven to be successful and cost-effective [5] . Thus, strategies such as healthcare associated electronic alerts or even automatic referrals for positive cases are very likely to provide an adequate linkage to care [6] .

However, the usefulness of this new model in terms of improving healthcare access must be prospectively evaluated. In this regard, some items that must be clearly evaluated are both the acceptance and compliance of the pre-established follow-up schedule, as well as the degree of satisfaction. None of these relevant issues were reported in the Giacomelli's work.

J o u r n a l P r e -p r o o f

The Challenging Road to Hepatitis C Virus Eradication

Pandemic on HCV Elimination in Spain

SARS-CoV-2 massive testing: A window of opportunity to catch up with HCV elimination

Detecting HCV infection by means of mass population SARS-CoV-2 screening: a pilot experience in Northern Italy

An Economic Evaluation of the Cost-Effectiveness of Opt-Out Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C Testing in an Emergency Department Setting in the United Kingdom. Value in health : the journal of the International Society for

Grupo de Trabajo para la Eliminacion de la Hepatitis CeC. Strategy for the Elimination of Hepatitis C in Cantabria