WHITEHOUSE STATION, N.J. — Drug maker Merck announced that it has kicked off an initiative that includes a wide range of public education and patient support programs, as well as research efforts to help improve care for people living with chronic hepatitis C virus infections.

Merck's Hope Against Hepatitis C initiative includes a variety of public-private partnerships, educational programs and collaborative research efforts aimed at supporting the hepatitis C community.

The drug maker also has launched a new consumer education website, AllAboutHepC.com, to help inform patients about the risks associated with chronic HCV infection and to address common questions about the disease.

"Winning the battle against viral hepatitis C requires improved public awareness and education to ensure that those at risk speak to their physicians about getting tested," said Patrick Bergstedt, SVP and general manager, infectious diseases, global human health at Merck. "Merck is committed to supporting these efforts, which are critical to managing this serious public health issue.”