Find the Missing Millions is quite an engaging call for action on this year’s World Hepatitis Day (28th July). Hepatitis is categorized into Hepatitis A, B, C, D and E viruses, and is defined as an inflammation of the liver by the World Health Organization (WHO). More than 325 million people across the globe are infected with viral hepatitis and 22% of this population live in Africa. Furthermore, in Nigeria 1 in 25 people and 1 in 50 people are infected with hepatitis B and C, respectively (Musa et al., 2015).
The management of viral hepatitis infection has been predominantly low globally, as over 290 million people are unaware they are living with the infection (WHO, 2017). Worldwide, only 42% of people infected with hepatitis are benefiting from vaccine administration, and even less are receiving treatment (16.7%). It is therefore crucial to join in this year’s movement to find the missing millions. Together, we can work towards reducing the burden of this asymptomatic disease by 2030.
Factoring that a great number of people are unaware of the possibility of hepatitis infection, how would you suggest this public health issue be tackled? How can you encourage individuals, schools and organisations around you to take part in hepatitis screening? What are the likely ways to promote an increased uptake of vaccines?