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Public Awareness Campaign on Hepatitis in Keta
On World Hepatitis Day, celebrated on July 28, 2025, the Keta Municipal Health Directorate in the Volta Region launched a public awareness campaign to educate residents about hepatitis. The initiative aimed to inform the community about the causes, types, and prevention methods of this serious health condition.
Madam Dora Kugbonu, a Public Health Promotion Officer at the Keta Health Directorate, emphasized the importance of understanding hepatitis during the commemoration. She explained that hepatitis is characterized by inflammation of the liver and often results from viral infections. There are five main types of hepatitis viruses: A, B, C, D, and E. Each type has distinct modes of transmission and can cause varying levels of liver damage.
She highlighted that hepatitis can also be caused by factors such as excessive alcohol consumption, toxins, and certain medications. Transmission occurs through contaminated food and water, blood-to-blood contact, and sexual contact. Specifically, Hepatitis A and E are typically spread through contaminated food and water, while Hepatitis B, C, and D are transmitted through blood-to-blood contact and other bodily fluids.
Madam Kugbonu urged the public to seek medical attention immediately if they experience any unusual symptoms. She stressed that prevention is crucial in reducing the risk of hepatitis. This includes early detection, vaccination, practicing good hygiene, avoiding sharing personal items, and using safe injection practices.
The hepatitis B vaccine is particularly important in preventing the transmission of the virus from mother to child during birth. She encouraged pregnant and lactating mothers to report for screening and treatment. Hepatitis can have severe effects on individuals and communities, including liver damage, cirrhosis, and liver cancer. Chronic infections can lead to severe liver damage and even death if left untreated.
Public education and awareness are critical in preventing the spread of hepatitis. Understanding the causes, types, and prevention methods helps individuals take steps to protect themselves and their loved ones. The efforts by the Keta Municipal Health Directorate in educating the public through radio stations and community centers are significant steps toward raising awareness and promoting prevention methods.
Madam Kugbonu noted that while Hepatitis B can be treated, Hepatitis C can be cured. She encouraged the public to get tested and protected through vaccination. People living with Hepatitis B can lead normal lives like anyone else.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has played a vital role in promoting awareness and education about hepatitis globally. Its goal is to eliminate hepatitis as a public health threat by 2030. WHO’s resources and guidelines provide valuable support to healthcare professionals and communities worldwide.
GNA reported that approximately 6,000 people are infected with viral hepatitis B and C each day. However, only seven million people are treated for Hepatitis B, and 12.5 million for Hepatitis C out of the 304 million people living with hepatitis globally.
The public was advised to report any signs of illness or unrest to the nearest healthcare center for screening and timely intervention. The theme for this year’s World Hepatitis Day was “Let’s Break it Down.”
