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1st HBV carrier gains health pass in China
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It's good news for China's 120 million Hepatitis-B Virus carriers that checks for the ailment will be canceled. It means they will be able to enjoy the same access to employment and school enrollment as everyone else. Many have fought for such equality for dozens of years, and 2009 is considered a milestone in their struggle.
On July 20th, 2009, China's newest Food Safety Law regulations were released. One major change was the lifting of a ban on HBV carriers working in restaurants and other food-related jobs.
A health administration rule for schools, issued 10 days later, stipulates that kindergartens should not refuse to accept HBV positive children.
A month later, the Minister of Human Resources and Social Security vowed to ensure the employment rights of HBV carriers.
Meanwhile, those affected with the virus are fighting for themselves.
22-year-old Lei Chuang received a health certificate in eastern Zhejiang Province on September 1st. The pass makes him to the first HBV carrier allowed to be employed in China's food industry.
Lei Chuang said, "If I don't do it now, who will help me when I am discriminated against?"
Lei has fought against HBV discrimination for two years. He promoted his achievement through the Internet.
Two days later, Zhou Zongquan, a college senior in Anhui Province, repeated Lei's success.
Zhou Zongquan said, "I didn't mean to work in the food industry before applying for the certificate. I think it means the government and health department are representing both science and the law."
The certificates are not just victories for the two young men. Their strides are helping an entire group of HBV carriers see rekindled hope for equal rights.
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