World Hepatitis Day, July 28th: Origins and Significance

World Hepatitis Day, observed annually on July 28, is a global awareness-raising campaign aimed at shining a spotlight on viral hepatitis and liver cancer.

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Hepatitis is a serious and prevalent disease in Vietnam and many other countries worldwide. To raise awareness and promote prevention of this disease, the World Health Organization (WHO) designated July 28 as “World Hepatitis Day.”

1What is World Hepatitis Day?

July 28 is observed as World Hepatitis Day or World Hepatitis Day by the World Health Organization.

Since its inception, 194 countries have participated in various activities to mark this day, including free screening programs, rallies, and awareness campaigns.

July 28 is designated as World Hepatitis Day by the World Health Organization

2Significance of World Hepatitis Day on July 28

This day aims to raise global awareness about the dangers of hepatitis and urge countries to take immediate action before it’s too late.

Significance of World Hepatitis Day on July 28

3Some Messages for Hepatitis Prevention

1. Hepatitis B vaccination within 24 hours of birth is the best way to prevent mother-to-child transmission of hepatitis B.

2. Hepatitis B is a common liver disease globally. If left untreated, it can lead to cirrhosis or liver cancer.

3. Timely hepatitis B vaccination and completing the full course are the most effective ways to prevent the disease.

4. Regular testing and treatment for viral hepatitis can prevent liver cancer and other severe liver diseases.

5. Everyone should have access to hepatitis prevention, testing, and treatment services.

6. All pregnant women should undergo routine testing for hepatitis B, HIV, and syphilis and receive treatment if necessary.

7. Complete the hepatitis vaccine series (hepatitis A and B) as per the recommended schedule or as advised by your doctor.

8. Everyone can play a part in eliminating hepatitis by joining the global effort to knock out hepatitis viruses.

Messages for Hepatitis Prevention

4Frequently Asked Questions about Hepatitis Prevention Day

How many countries have committed to the 2030 viral hepatitis elimination goals?

Currently, 86% of countries are considering setting targets for hepatitis elimination, and over 70% have developed plans to ensure community access to essential hepatitis services, including prevention, diagnosis, testing, treatment, and care.

What needs to be done to reduce new cases of hepatitis B and C?

To reduce the incidence of hepatitis B and C, it is crucial to increase the hepatitis B vaccination rate for infants within 24 hours of birth, provide hepatitis B vaccinations for high-risk communities, and strengthen harm reduction programs for people who inject drugs. Additionally, strict adherence to safety protocols in medical procedures, surgeries, and dental care is essential. Proper handling and disposal of needles and syringes are critical, especially in healthcare settings serving individuals who use drugs, as this is a primary cause of hepatitis C transmission.

What does WHO recommend for hepatitis B prevention?

According to the WHO, the most effective way to prevent hepatitis B virus transmission is through timely vaccination. They recommend administering the first dose of the hepatitis B vaccine as soon as possible after birth, preferably within 24 hours, followed by two or three additional doses at least four weeks apart.

Source: Pasteur Institute in Ho Chi Minh City

Frequently Asked Questions about Hepatitis Prevention Day

This article has provided insights into World Hepatitis Day and its significance. We hope it has been informative and raised your awareness about this important global health issue.

Frequently asked questions

World Hepatitis Day is observed annually on July 28th. It aims to raise awareness about hepatitis, a group of inflammatory liver conditions, and to promote actions that can lead to its prevention and control.

July 28th marks the birthday of Dr. Baruch Samuel Blumberg, who discovered the hepatitis B virus (HBV) and developed a diagnostic test and vaccine for it. For his contributions, he was awarded the Nobel Prize in Medicine in 1976.

World Hepatitis Day serves as a global platform to increase awareness and understanding of hepatitis and its various forms, particularly hepatitis B and C. It emphasizes the need for prevention, diagnosis, and treatment, as these infections can lead to severe liver damage and cancer if left untreated.

The key messages of World Hepatitis Day include encouraging people to get tested for hepatitis, particularly those at high risk, and promoting vaccination as a preventive measure. It also emphasizes the importance of safe blood and injection practices, as well as harm reduction strategies for drug users.

People can get involved by spreading awareness through social media and community events, advocating for better access to testing and treatment, and supporting organizations working to eliminate hepatitis. Wearing the color red and displaying the World Hepatitis Day logo are also ways to show support and raise visibility.
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