SVR and visa problem

[alijee]

i want to go Saudi Arabia and they perform Elisa test to detect hepatitis B and C. Plz my PCR is still negative 6 years post tx. But i hv heard that Elisa will remain positive for life time. Is it true?

[dontworry_behappy1]

I read 40% per cent maybe a high estimate.  But regardless, there is extremely high occurrences of Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C in Saudi Arabia.

[dontworry_behappy1]

40 per cent of the population in Saudi Arabia have Hepatitis C.  I think I would be more concern about the exposure while your there.  Otherwise, be careful and use good hygiene at all times.  

Here is a copy of the required medical report from the Saudi Arabia Embassy.

I question that Having Hepatitis C is even an issue traveling to this country.   Call the embassy and put your mind at ease if still concerned.  

http://www.saudiembassy.net/files/PDF/MedicalReport.pdf

FYI:  If you have been exposed to Hepatitis C or have had Hepatitis C you
will test positive for Hepatitis C antibodies for the rest of your life.  This will required you to have a Hepatitis C RNA by PCR to prove you don't have
Hepatitis C.  This will require a current test results if proof is required.  

Have a great trip.

[patra_]

SurfsideGal os correct.  However, I would go even further and print off information for AASLD (Society for the Study of Liver Disease), or whatever your Country's professional organization for studying Hep C, get the letter from your doctor, AND a copy of your current HCV RNA PCR test and find out WHO is the Director of the VISA Office and, if close enough, try to go see that person.  If not, maila COPY of all that.  that way, not only might you help yourself, but possibly others, too.  It is a shame that we must educate the people who make these decisions, but I guess they cannot know everything about everything.

Good luck!

[SurfsideGal]

Yes, that is true. I don't know a thing about international law regarding health issues. Perhaps a letter from your doctor explaining that your PCR is undetected would be adequate. My best to you.