Phek National Viral Hepatitis Control Programme observes World Hepatitis Day

DIMAPUR — Phek National Viral Hepatitis Control Programme (NVHCP) observed World Hepatitis Day on July 28 at the CMO conference hall in Phek, on the theme “Hepatitis – let’s break it down”. The event aimed to raise awareness about hepatitis, a serious liver infection linked to severe liver disease and cancer.

Speaking on the occasion, the guest speaker, Dr. Ebenezer Phesao, District Programme Officer, NVHCP, highlighted strategies and treatments. The importance of vaccination was also emphasised to the gathering.

Dr. Ebenezer also informed the participants that the World Health Organisation (WHO) has set a goal to eliminate viral hepatitis by 2030, which is a threat to public health.

He said that in order to achieve the goal, the state must reduce hepatitis infection by 90 per cent and deaths by 60 per cent by carrying out campaigns focusing on prevention, testing, treatment of hepatitis B and C, and awareness campaigns in the community.

Also read: Dimapur records highest prevalence of hepatitis B and C in Nagaland

Velato Nienu, DNDO-DISHA, Phek, in his technical presentation, shared that hepatitis is becoming active and alarming in the district.

According to data from the last two years, out of 5,229 screened for hepatitis B, 74 were found active, and 26 were detected positive for hepatitis C out of 5,285 screened. He called upon the staff, stating that a significant impact on the lives of those affected can be made by working together.

After the programme, free hepatitis B and C screening and vaccination camp were also carried out.