There are more than 5 million Americans living with viral hepatitis, which is deadlier than most other infectious diseases, including HIV. Viral hepatitis is inflammation of the liver caused by an infection that, if left untreated, can lead to cirrhosis, liver cancer, and death. However, almost half of all Americans living with hepatitis may not even know that they have it and are at greater risk of other health concerns.

That’s why Rep. Grace Meng (NY-6) and Rep. Hank Johnson (GA-4) have launched the Congressional Hepatitis Caucus, which serves as a resource for members of Congress and their staff on issues and research related to the prevention and treatment of viral hepatitis. The Caucus works with leading health officials, experts, community leaders, and individuals affected by viral hepatitis to address this epidemic, which is causing a rise in deaths at a time when fatalities of most other infectious diseases have stabilized or are falling.

Write to your member of Congress and urge them to join the Congressional Hepatitis Caucus and to support policies that will improve the federal response to viral hepatitis.