Many central and local government bodies as well as private-sector firms reject job applicants who, according to blood tests and health checkups, carry hepatitis viruses, according to a national association of people with liver diseases.
The government bodies and firms are ignoring Health, Labor and Welfare Ministry directives to stop putting the applicants through mandatory blood tests and health checks when they apply for employment.
The Tokyo-based patient organization said it has received several complaints from people who have been denied job opportunities because of their diseases.