From Mika’il Tsoho, Dutse
As the World marks World Hepatitis Day, the National Orientation Agency (NOA) calls on all Nigerians to join the global fight against the disease.
The call was made by the Jigawa State Director of National Orientation Agency (NOA), Malam Ahmad Ibrahim, in a statement signed by the head of media and communications unit, Sarah Ogodo, and made it available to the news men.
He explained that the theme for this year’s commemoration is “Hepatitis: Let’s Break it down,” which calls for concerted and urgent effort to dislodge all forms of barriers, whether financial, social, or system challenges that militate against the elimination of the killer disease.
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The Director described Hepatitis as a dangerous inflammation of the liver caused by viruses like Hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E, stressing that Hepatitis B and C are the most deadly, often leading to liver cancer and death if untreated.
According to him, “hepatitis is preventable and treatable, and knowing our status is very crucial; many people living with hepatitis are unaware, so we must get tested today at a hospital or health centre,” he added.
He therefore appealed to the public to get vaccinated, adding that vaccination against Hepatitis B is safe, effective, and available.
Ibrahim encouraged the public to imbibe safe health habits such as avoiding sharing sharp objects like razors and needles, and ensuring blood transfusions are screened.
He then cautioned that the stigmatization of people living with hepatitis should be stopped as they deserve support and compassion, not discrimination.
