“Every year, more than a million lives are lost to hepatitis. We’re not waiting for change – we’re fighting to make it happen.”
Every year World celebrates ‘World Hepatitis Day‘ on 28th July as a remainder to accelerate elimination efforts of viral hepatitis and the urgent need for testing and treatment for the real people who need it.
Hepatitis, types, causes and treatment.
Hepatitis is a viral infection that affects the liver. There are several types of hepatitis, including:
- Hepatitis A: This type is usually spread through contaminated food or water and is preventable through vaccination.
- Hepatitis B: It spreads through contact with infected body fluids, such as blood or sexual contact. Vaccination is available for Hepatitis B and is crucial for prevention.
- Hepatitis C: It is also transmitted through contact with infected blood, often due to sharing needles or through unprotected sexual contact. There is no vaccine for Hepatitis C, but it can be treated with antiviral medications.
- Hepatitis D: This type only occurs in individuals already infected with Hepatitis B, as it requires the presence of the Hepatitis B virus to cause an infection.
- Hepatitis E: Similar to Hepatitis A, it spreads through contaminated food and water. There is no specific treatment for Hepatitis E, but it usually resolves on its own.
To raise awareness about hepatitis, several steps can be taken:
Education: Educate the public about the different types of hepatitis, how they are transmitted, and their prevention measures.
2. Vaccination: Encourage vaccination against Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B, especially for individuals at higher risk, such as healthcare workers, travellers to endemic regions, and those with certain medical conditions.
3. Safe Practices: Promote safe practices to prevent the transmission of Hepatitis C, such as avoiding sharing needles or personal items that may be contaminated with blood.
4. Testing: Encourage regular testing for Hepatitis C, especially for individuals at higher risk, to ensure early detection and timely treatment.
5. Support and Resources: Ensure that there are support groups and resources available for individuals living with hepatitis and their families.
6.Public Health Campaigns: Collaborate with healthcare organisations and government agencies to run awareness campaigns, distribute informational materials, and conduct screening programs.
Increasing awareness is essential to prevent infections, early diagnosis and to improve overall public health.
-Madiha Fatma ( MBBS & Academic Director, Editor – MCD )
