Phetchabun Screens 97.3% for HCV; 96.4% of SVR12-Evaluable Patients Are Cured, but Transmission Elimination Is Unproven
Phetchabun’s micro-elimination programme linked fingerstick anti-HCV testing, HCV-RNA confirmation, and 12-week sofosbuvir/velpatasvir treatment through primary-care and district-hospital services across all 11 districts under universal health coverage. From 2020 to April 2026, 389,547 of 400,567 targeted people were screened (97.25%); 14,845 of 18,340 anti-HCV-reactive participants received RNA confirmation (80.94%), identifying 10,996 active infections. Of 8,961 treatment-eligible patients, 8,842 received therapy (98.67%); among 6,719 evaluated at SVR12, 6,474 were cured (96.35%). The programme demonstrates province-scale test-to-treat feasibility, but not yet the incidence or mortality reductions required for elimination.
Thai researchersWijitra Phaengkha · Pornjarim Nilyanimit · Nungruthai Suntronwong · Jiratchaya Puenpa · Duong Hoang Huy Le · Saranya Ngamnimit · Pattama Janpathip · Lapasrada Kamput · Kawin Thongnoi · Wanalee Toomta · Phatcha Wohanklong · Jarunlak Saokeaw · Niphapornt Thammajit · Suwannee Rerngleum · Ananyalak Yoisara · Nitiya Srisuk · Jidapa Suwannachat · Anchalee Karagate · Rujipat Wasitthankasem · Yong Poovorawan