World Hepatitis Day

World Hepatitis Day, which falls on July 28, was established by WHO to raise awareness on the disease and the need for a commitment against this silent but persistent epidemic. 

Worldwide, more than 500 million
persons are living with chronic Hepatitis B virus or Hepatitis C virus infections; and these infections cause about one million deaths annually. 

Unfortunately, most persons with chronic viral hepatitis
are unaware of their infections. The prevalence rate in Ghana
continues to be on the rise. Ghana belongs to the areas where the prevalence of chronic Hepatitis B infection is high and that of Hepatits C virus is also high. Besides there is a high prevalence of Hepatitis B of 30 per cent  among blood donors. Viral Hepatitis has therefore become a major public health concern, which calls for a
concerted effort to check its spread.  

It is an inflammation of the
liver caused by specific viruses that primarily attack the liver. The common types of viral hepatitis are Hepatitis A, B, C, D and Hepatitis E. General signs and symptoms may include a sudden onset of general ill-health, mild fever, yellowing of the skin and eyes, dark urine, loss of appetite, extreme fatigue,  ausea, vomiting and abdominal
pain. 

Infected children rarely show signs of the disease and may go bout unrecognised. Effective tools are available to prevent infection with viral hepatitis, which include Hepatitis B vaccination, surveillance, education, screening and treatment. 

The challenge is to build the capacity to extend these interventions throughout the
country. Ghana is on the verge of finalising a National Policy on the prevention and control of viral hepatitis to among other things create a favourable environment for the prevention and control of all aspects
of viral hepatitis, to identify and treat those people most at risk of hepatitis virus related disease with safe and effective therapies. 

It is noteworthy that Viral Hepatitis is  largely preventable through the adoption of healthy lifestyle. In order to check its spread the public is encouraged to screen for viral hepatitis and vaccinate against hepatitis B, adopt safe sex, avoid sharing with others sharp implements and tooth brushes, wash hands with treated water and soap.

Also there is the need to screen blood before transfusion, ensure
good sanitation and personal hygiene and most importantly visit the nearest health facility in case of fever with yellowing of the skin, eyes and dark urine. Viral hepatitis B can however be prevented with vaccination and immunization at birth. 

The vaccine has been proven to
be effective in preventing the disease and has an outstanding record of safety and effectiveness. Protection lasts at least 20 years and is lifelong. Serious systemic adverse reactions and allergic reactions are rarely reported, but immunity develops after the third dose of vaccination. Let us all come together to ensure that viral hepatitis is no more of public health importance in Ghana., and reduce mordibity
as well as mortality to the barest minimum.

GBC