World Hepatitis Day 2024: Theme, History And 5 Prevention Tips You Need To Know

World Hepatitis Day is observed annually on July 28 to increase awareness about hepatitis, encourage preventive measures, promote testing and treatment, and support improved public health policies to address the disease.

Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver, often caused by viral infections but also due to other factors such as alcohol consumption, certain medications, and autoimmune diseases. 

The main types of hepatitis are hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E, each with different modes of transmission and potential health impacts. 

World Hepatitis Day 2024 Theme: 

The theme for World Hepatitis Day 2024 is “It's time for action.”

World Hepatitis Day 2024 History: 

World Hepatitis Day is observed on July 28 each year to raise awareness about hepatitis, a group of infectious diseases known as hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E. This date was chosen to honour the birthday of Dr. Baruch Blumberg, the Nobel Laureate who discovered the hepatitis B virus (HBV) and developed a diagnostic test and vaccine for it.

Here are 5 prevention tips for Hepatitis:

Vaccination

Effective vaccines are available for Hepatitis A and B. Vaccination can prevent the infection. The vaccine stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies against the virus without causing the disease.

Safe injection practices

Avoid sharing needles. Using new, sterile needles for injections. It prevents transmission of blood-borne hepatitis viruses (B and C).

Hygienic food and water

Ensure you clean your food and water thoroughly. Properly cook food and use clean drinking water. It reduces the risk of hepatitis A and E, which spread through contaminated food and water.

Hand hygiene

Regular hand washing especially before eating and after using the toilet can help in prevention. It removes potential contaminants that can cause hepatitis A and E.