World Hepatitis B disease day – 28th July
Author and institutional affiliation: Annet Mary Namusisi, Uganda Public Health Fellowship Program, Uganda National Institute of Public Health, Kampala. Correspondence: Tel: 256785859760, Email: annetnamusisi@uniph.go.ug
On 28th July every year, we commemorate the World Hepatitis B disease day, to raise its awareness among people in the world, and ultimately adopt the prevention mechanisms.
Globally, over 90% of people are not aware they have a Hepatitis B Virus infection until in the late stages of the disease. Over 254 million people globally have Hepatitis B viral (HBV) infection and Uganda contributes 4.3% on this burden.
Hepatitis B, is the leading cause of liver cirrhosis and liver cancer in Uganda.
Transmission of HBV infection is through contact with blood or other body fluids of an infected person, mainly via vertical transmission from mother to child, sexual contact and sharing of sharp or piercing equipment.
The disease is incurable and its case fatality rate is rapidly increasing globally and nationally.
To prevent acquisition of Hepatitis B disease, there are available Hepatitis B vaccines given in 3 doses 1 month apart, and the last dose after 6 months, to both Hepatitis B negative children and adults.
On this note, it’s important to always test for this infection to ensure immediate prevention practices, early treatment, and improve prognosis.
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