NY Cures Hep C

In 2018, New York State made the commitment to eliminate hep C, a virus that infects the liver. Most people with hep C do not even know they have it. Left untreated, hep C can cause serious health effects and even death. However, today there are treatments available that cure hep C with few side effects. Unlike hepatitis A and hepatitis B there is not a vaccine to prevent hepatitis C. Over the years, the treatments for hepatitis C have become more effective. However, treatment is not for everyone and a specialist should be consulted when determining if someone should get treated.
When this project was first proposed, the NYS DOH identified several individuals who were willing to tell their Hep C stories, There were several individuals who were either survivors of Hep C, undergoing treatment for Hep C, relatives of those who have/had Hep C, or healthcare providers offering testimonials about their experience with Hep C. This video series of testimonials, a broadcast PSA and social media spots, was intended to engage audiences to learn more about Hepatitic C, understand there are treatments, and seek action. 22 interviews were conducted across New York State to represent the state geography as a whole. Locations included Manhattan, Bronx, Brooklyn, Albany, Rochester and Buffalo. Individuals from those general areas where brought into those specific shoot locations. In addition, still photographs were taken of each subject and provided to NYS DOH for them to create print and outdoor advertising.