WHEREAS it is estimated that between 500,000 and 600,000 people in Canada are living with hepatitis B and C, and are at risk for developing cirrhosis, liver failure, liver cancer and non-liver related manifestations.

In Toronto alone, an average of 2,000 people test positive for hepatitis B and an average of 1,500 test positive for hepatitis C each year. These figures likely under-represent total cases because provincial and national statistics estimate that up to one third of people with hepatitis B or C do not know that they are infected.

Hepatitis B and hepatitis C are slow and progressive illnesses that gradually damage the liver.

An effective vaccine is available to prevent hepatitis B but there is no vaccine to prevent hepatitis C. Treatments for both types are rapidly improving and harm reduction strategies can help prevent new infections of hepatitis C.

Hepatitis Awareness Day is an ideal opportunity to enhance public awareness and education, reduce stigma, foster tolerance and understanding, acknowledge those affected and explore ways to better address hepatitis B and C in the future.

NOW THEREFORE, I, Mayor David Miller, on behalf of Toronto City Council, do hereby proclaim May 19, 2009 as "Hepatitis Awareness Day".