On many occasions, MCN staff has heard from colleagues in the area of migrant health that the official legislated definition of a Migrant or Seasonal Farmworker used in HRSA funded health centers is not representative of the population now being served in many M/CHCs. In order to have a clearer understanding of the opinions held by our colleagues, MCN initiated a 3 week-long survey in June, 2006 to gather information from individuals providing direct health services about the possible strengths or weaknesses of the definition of migrant currently in use. Here are the results.

The focus for the month of April is Hepatitis C. The following links are included below: 1. Screening for Hepatitis C: A Common Sense Approach 2. Hepatitis C in New Mexico: A Public Health Approach to a "Silent" Epidemic 3. A Guide to Understanding Hepatitis C/Guia para Comprender la Hepatitis C 4. Combatting HCV Fatigue 5. Cost Estimates for Hepatitis Tests

We began in July with information about substance abuse among migrant workers. The current edition is Harm Reduction Strategies for HCV Substance Abusers. Potential substance abuse treatment sites and resources for migrants will follow in September.

This month we offer information about an important opportunity to receive adult hepatitis B vaccine resources. In addition, we're pleased to alert you to a case-based hepatitis continuing education offered by one of our CDC partners in the Viral Hepatitis Education and Training program.