To commemorate the 2022 World Hepatitis Day, the Gombe State Agency for the Control of AIDS, with the support of the Ministry of Health, Primary Health Care Development Agency held a sensitisation programme in Tangland and Tal districts in Billiri Local Government Area.
According to reports, World Hepatitis Day, observed on July 28 every year, aims to raise global awareness of hepatitis; a group of infectious diseases known as hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E to encourage prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.
Our correspondent reports that based on the World Health Organisation declaration, the 2022 World Hepatitis Day theme is bringing Hepatitis care closer to you.
The exercise commenced with a rally from Tangland to Tal where specialists enlightened the people on the prevention and treatment of hepatitis.
Speaking at the programme, the GOMSACA Social Mobilisation Officer, Mahmood ELnafaty, said hepatitis is related to HIV but more dangerous because of its mode of infection.
According to him, no fewer than 600 persons would be tested, adding that hepatitis could be managed when detected early.
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He said, “Mode of transmission includes blood to blood contact with infected persons, bodily fluids among others.
“Test and vaccine will be administered free of charge to people who avail themselves and are negative, while those positive will be linked to a health facility for treatment.”
Also Speaking, A Medical Laboratory Scientist with the Primary Health Care Development Agency, Mr. Yila Adamu said that based on a sentinel survey carried out between 2010-2012, more awareness would be required to stem the tide of hepatitis.
Adamu revealed that Gombe has a prevalence rate of 22.0 per cent for hepatitis B and 2.2 per cent for hepatitis C.
“One out of 12 persons has hepatitis, that is why we are trying to make sure that more persons become aware,” Adamu said.
On his part, Mai Tangle Danladi Sanusi who volunteered to be tested during a courtesy visit by the group stressed the importance of people knowing their hepatitis status.
He appreciated the choice of Billiri for the awareness creation and assured support for the success of the event.
The District Heads of Tangland Abdu Tahir, Tal Shuaibu Anampara, and their village heads were also tested.
They equally urged their subjects to get tested to know their hepatitis status to enable them to get vaccinated for prevention and also get access to treatment depending on the outcome of the result.
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