By Chris Chikelue
Anambra State Government through the Ministry of Health has joined the rest of the World to mark the 2026 World Hepatitis Day on July 28.
On this year’s World Hepatitis Day, the Anambra State AIDS, Viral Hepatitis and STIs Control Programme (SASCP) of the Ministry of Health stood with the global health community in calling for a strengthened efforts toward the elimination of viral hepatitis as a public health concern.
The 2026 theme, “Hepatitis: Let’s Break It Down,” highlighted the urgent need for united action—expanding public awareness, increasing access to Hepatitis B vaccination, encouraging early diagnosis, and ensuring prompt and effective treatment for those affected.
While addressing residents of the state on the need to be aware of the scourge and how to get care, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike represented by the State Director, Public Health, SMOH, Dr. Afam Anaeme called on all residents of the State to take proactive steps for their health.
He said to be so proactive they should get informed about hepatitis and its risks and go for tests to know their status.
The commissioner urged the people to make efforts to receive the Hepatitis vaccine for protection and Access care early enough “if you test positive.
“By working together, we can dismantle the barriers that fuel transmission and improve outcomes, moving closer to a future free of viral hepatitis in Anambra State.
“Break the barriers. Protect your health. End hepatitis”, Commissioner Obidike explained.
The Desk Officer, Hepatitis at the State Ministry of Health, Mr. Ikechukwu Abadom said a person can be affected by the scourge without knowing it but that a test in that purpose will help to expose ones status and the need for treatment accordingly if one tests positive.
He said the State Government is doing well to provide testing kits for pregnant mothers and want it to be extended to the public whether pregnant or not.
“I plead with government to do more especially in the area of sensitization of the public on the scourge and the provision of free vaccination to the residents which will go far to help put the scourge away and give us a healthy state.”
Chris is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
