The City of Long Beach Health Department is stepping up its fight against hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection with a substantial boost from the state. A $1 million grant from the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) has been secured to intensify HBV screening, vaccination, and care linkage efforts within the community, especially among high-risk populations, as per the City of Long Beach.
This will be a welcome relief for community members who have been disproportionately affected by HBV, particularly within the Asian American and Pacific Islander communities, and those with a history of substance use. The funding is a part of the Hepatitis B Demonstration Project Grants, which makes Long Beach both the first and only local health jurisdiction, in California to receive these specific funds.
According to the City of Long Beach announcement, "More information on how residents can receive these services will be provided at a later date." For any additional media inquiries, contact information has been made available. Jennifer Rice Epstein, Public Affairs Officer for the Department of Health and Human Services, can be reached for comments at 562.441.3590 or via email at [email protected].
