The Rivers State Government announced an ongoing and expanded public health intervention, launching free viral hepatitis screening and medical treatment across designated public health facilities to mark World Hepatitis Day.
Speaking during an official state broadcast in Port Harcourt, the Acting Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Vincent Wachukwu, stated that the administration of Governor Siminalayi Fubara has intensified preventive measures, public education, and clinical care to reduce the burden of the disease across the state.
Dr. Wachukwu explained that this year’s global theme, “Hepatitis: Let’s Break It Down,” aligns directly with the state’s strategic objective of expanding access to basic healthcare services.
He noted that viral hepatitis remains a persistent global and national health challenge, with over 300 million people living with the infection worldwide, including millions of affected individuals across Nigeria who remain unaware of their status.
Addressing the clinical management of the condition, Dr. Wachukwu stated that viral hepatitis does not have to result in a fatal outcome if detected early through proper medical screening.
He emphasized that controlling the spread of Hepatitis B and C requires structured community-level testing, early clinical intervention, sustained administration of therapies, and the routine vaccination of eligible persons.
The Acting Permanent Secretary urged residents across all twenty-three local government areas of Rivers State to utilize the state’s intervention by undergoing screening at public health centers, receiving the Hepatitis B vaccine where appropriate, and adhering to prescribed medical treatments.
He added that overcoming the social stigma attached to the disease requires widespread dissemination of accurate health information and active community participation.
Dr. Wachukwu affirmed that the Ministry of Health will maintain partnerships with international health agencies and private sector stakeholders to integrate viral hepatitis surveillance and care into existing primary healthcare programs throughout Rivers State.
The free testing and treatment services are currently operational at designated government-owned healthcare centers across the state.
