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The Infected Blood Inquiry


This week has seen publication of the long awaited Infected Blood Inquiry, which has conducted a comprehensive investigation into the catalogue of failures that led to more than 30,000 individuals being infected with blood borne viruses, including hepatitis C and HIV. More than 3000 have died of complications following these infections and countless more have suffered miserably as a consequence. The inquiry began in 2018 and has examined millions of documents and witness statements to determine the how this health disaster could have happened. The Report makes hard reading and found systemic, collective and individual failures, including evidence of institutional cover-ups at Government and NHS levels. There are many important recommendations that are vital to ensure a safe, effective and transparent practice in the NHS so it is important that all of those working in the NHS read the report and take action to implement the recommendations.

Many gastroenterologists and hepatologists will have patients under our care who acquired hepatitis (and other blood borne viruses) from infected blood and have had treatment for these infections. Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to all those who have needlessly suffered because of the failings outlined in this report.

Dr Coral Hollywood, VP Hepatology 


Prof Stuart McPherson, Deputy VP Hepatology


Dr Tim Cross, President of BASL

Get a free home test for hepatitis C here.

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January 22, 2025

Pause to UKHSA Helicobacter pylori isolation and Antimicrobial Sensitivity Testing Service

As a result of increasing volumes of specimens received exceeding capacity, the UKHSA Gastrointestinal Bacteria Reference Unit (GBRU) are pausing the routine UKHSA Briefing Note BN2025/003 Issued 17 January 2025

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January 21, 2025

Read the new Gastroenterology Advice & Guidance

The NHS has seen major changes to outpatient services in recent years, accelerated by adopting remote consultations and telemedicine during the pandemic. This guide provides advice and templates for a key aspect of outpatient services, Advice and Guidance.

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December 19, 2024

Alcohol Health Alliance urges action on alcohol-related deaths

Alcohol-related harm continues to place significant pressure on the healthcare system, with nearly 1 million hospital admissions each year linked to alcohol, costing the NHS £4.91 billion annually. The AHA has called for policies such as minimum unit pricing and increased funding for alcohol treatment services to reduce harm and improve public health.