A new program aims to increase Hepatitis A and B vaccinations among gay and bisexual men across the city.

A group called Hep Team NYC is launching a public information campaign, including free vaccinations at the New York Gay Pride Festival on June 25th.

Hepatitis A and B can be sexually transmitted and are preventable with vaccines. A recent survey of gay and bisexual men in the city shows as many as 41 percent haven't received a single dose of vaccine against hepatitis A or B.

Hepatitis A — which also can be passed through hand to hand contact — can make you seriously ill. Hepatitis B can cause long-term liver damage or even become fatal.

"Once you're vaccinated for Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B you have life long protection. Just imagine if there was a vaccine against HIV, everyone would be running out to get it," said Harold Levine, National Coordinator of Hep Team NYC program. "There are many health concerns that face the gay and lesbian community, but this is one of the few where there's a safe, effective and long-term protection that's available to everybody."

Hep Team NYC is working with the support of the city health department. The city provides free vaccines for both forms of Hepatitis.

For more information, call 311.