Dimapur district observed World Hepatitis Day at CMO’s Office, Dimapur, on July 29, under the theme “Invest in Eliminating Hepatitis”.
A press release from Dy.Chief Medical Officer, Dimapur, Dr. Antoly Suu, stated that the programme aimed to build awareness on viral Hepatitis and also empower for appropriate change in societal norms that reinforce positive attitude, beliefs, practice and addresses stigma and discrimination associated with viral hepatitis.
Dr. Molu, as resource person, sensitized participants on viral hepatitis, its prevention, vaccination, risk factor, treatment and medical management. He stated that viral hepatitis B and C were major health challenges and its routes of transmission were similar to HIV virus, however, was preventable.
Timely testing and treatment can save lives, while Hepatitis A and E were acute hepatitis and can be easily acquired as they were transmitted through feaco-oral route, therefore unhygienic food vendors and contaminated food should be avoided. Safe drinking water and hygienic and sanitary toilet should also be maintained.
He further stated that there was no cure for Hepatitis B, however, medication were available to stop the progression of virus. He informed that with the launching of National Viral Hepatitis Control Programme in the State, these medications will be made available to the public through the programme.
Chief Medical Officer, Dr. K Vikato Kinimi, also reiterated that prevention was the best cure. He stated that as health workers, it was their duty to first get self awareness and then spread message to families and communities.
The programme was chaired by Dy. Chief Medical Officer Dimapur, Dr. Antoly Suu.