Global and national efforts to eliminate viral hepatitis have focused primarily on hepatitis B and C, as these two viruses account for the highest number of hepatitis-related deaths worldwide. According to World Health Organization (WHO) figures, an estimated 820,000 people died from hepatitis B in 2019 while hepatitis C claimed 290,000 lives in the same year.

Viral hepatitis is highly contagious. Hepatitis B spreads through blood and other bodily fluids while hepatitis C is transmitted through blood. Without timely treatment, both can lead to chronic liver infection, inflammation, severe complications and even death.

That is why screening is essential—early detection allows for prompt medical intervention and better outcomes.

Our Preventive Measures

At BAFROW Medical Centre, we take proactive steps to protect mothers, infants and the wider community through:

• Antenatal screening: All pregnant women registered for antenatal care with us are routinely screened for hepatitis B and C. If positive, they are immediately referred to the national hepatitis clinic for specialized care.
• Infant vaccination: Every baby delivered at our hospital receives the hepatitis vaccine within 24 hours of birth, in line with the Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI) under the Ministry of Health.
• Safe blood transfusion: All blood donors are thoroughly screened and cleared before donation thereby ensuring safe transfusion practices.

How You Can Help

You play an important role in ending viral hepatitis. You can:

• Learn more about the viruses
• Share information with others
• Get screened without delay

Together, we can reduce the burden of viral hepatitis and save lives.