ISLAMABAD: While the World Hepatitis Day is being observed on Sunday (today) with the theme ‘It’s time to act’, health experts stress the importance of awareness to avoid the disease.

Consultant gastroenterologist and hepatologist at Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (Pims) Dr Hyder Abbasi, while talking to Dawn, said in Hepatitis A and E the symptoms were visible like jaundice, vomiting, body aches and fever.

“It settles in 4-6 weeks with supportive medicines. In rare cases it gets complicated and patients land in intensive care unit (ICU). Hepatitis A and E spread by polluted water. On the other hand, Hepatitis B and C spread by blood and related products,” he said.

“Hepatitis B and C are more dangerous in a way that they cause chronic hepatitis and symptoms are not evident until the disease is advanced and liver is damaged.

“People should get screened for Hepatitis B and C as nine out of 10 people living with hepatitis don’t know they have the disease. The government should take measures to create awareness among people and offer free screening for all. For Hepatitis B, effective vaccine is available and if people are vaccinated like Covid-19 we can reduce the burden of hepatitis,” he said.

Dr Abbasi suggested that people should avoid unnecessary injections and drips, avoid tattoos, get dental and surgical procedures only from authentic medical facilities with proper sterilisation of instruments, ask barbers to use new blade and in case of blood transfusion make sure it is screened properly.

Meanwhile, in a significant step towards eradicating hepatitis in Pakistan, Lab Diagnostic Systems (LDS) has announced a strategic partnership with Hangzhou AICHEK Medical Technology. This collaboration aligns with the government’s vision of eliminating hepatitis by 2030 and heralds a new era of advanced medical technology and innovative healthcare solutions in Pakistan.

According to a statement issued by the health ministry, coordinator to prime minister on health Dr Malik Mukhtar Ahmad said it was a great milestone as up till now medicines were packed in Pakistan, now these would be manufactured here.

“This would not only make medicines cheaper for the common man but it would also be a step towards the realisation of what was envisioned in the recent trip of PM Shehbaz Sharif to China,” he said.

“This partnership is not only a milestone in the healthcare sector but also a significant enhancement of the bilateral relationship between Pakistan and China. It symbolises a shared commitment to addressing global health challenges and underscores the strength of the partnership between the two nations,” Dr Mukhtar said.

Senate Chairman Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani, in his message on World Hepatitis Day, extended solidarity and support to all those affected by hepatitis and acknowledged the tireless efforts of healthcare professionals and organisations dedicated to combating this global health challenge.

He urged citizens to take proactive measures for their health, including regular screening and vaccination. With collective efforts, the impact of hepatitis could be minimised and a healthier future could be achieved for all.

Published in Dawn, July 28th, 2024