The Permanent Secretary Federal Ministry of Health, Engr. Olufunso Adebiyi has disclosed that about 19million Nigerians are living with hepatitis.
He stated this while speaking on the commemoration of 2023 World Hepatitis Day held in Abuja on Friday.
The Permanent Secretary who was represented by the Director of Public Health at the Ministry, Dr. Alex Oko said ” this event is significant which targeted at creating awareness about hepatitis as it continues to pose a threat to public health worldwide.
” No fewer than 19million people are infected with the virus in Nigeria and the government in collaboration with stakeholders especially World Health Oganization is putting effort to eradicate it in the country.
” The situation is worsened by low awareness in the general population, low coverage of testing and treatment which are important gaps to be addressed in order to achieve the global elimination goals by 2023
“Therefore, today’s event is another opportunity to rehew and sustain commitment and effort by stakeholders in the public and private sectors towards achieving control of viral hepatitis in Nigeria.”
The Permanent Secretary stressed that it is imperative to acknowledge that viral hepatitis knows no boundaries, It affects people regardless of age, gender, or socio-economic status, therefore the burden of this disease on families, communities, and healthcare systems cannot be underestimated.
“It is important that communities are empowered to confront this challenge head-on, by prioritizing prevention education and public awareness which are key weapons in the fight against viral hepatitis. “
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