Recently, the wife of Anambra State Governor, Dr Nonye Soludo expressed worry over the high rate of Hepatitis B and C prevalence in Nigeria.
According to available statistics, an estimated twenty million people are infected by either of the diseases or both, with over eighty per cent of these people not even aware of their status.
Dr Soludo explained that Hepatitis B can be treated if detected early enough while Hepatitis C, too, can be treated with antiviral medicines but only if discovered as early as possible, adding that hepatitis B vaccination is included as part of routine vaccination for children in Nigeria, while adults, too, can get vaccinated at any good health facility, stressing that the vaccines are not just safe but very effective.
Hepatitis is the acute inflammation of the liver as a result of virus infection. The condition can be self-limiting or can progress to liver cancer. Other infections, toxic substances such as alcohol, certain drugs and autoimmune diseases can also cause hepatitis.
It is dangerous because it affects the liver, which is very essential in the body. Liver has a wide range of functions, including filtering harmful substances from the blood, such as alcohol. It also stores vitamins, proteins and minerals in the body. Liver produces biochemical needed for digestion, maintains proper levels of glucose in the blood, produces body’s cholesterol, stores and decomposes red blood cells, among others.
Common modes of transmission of Hepatitis include receipt of contaminated blood and using contaminated equipment. For Hepatitis B, transmission is usually from mother to baby at birth and also by sexual contact.
Habitual drinking of badly prepared local gin, palm wine and excessive consumption of alcoholic beverages pose bigger dangers to the liver, which will result in Hepatitis.
The incubation period varies from two to six weeks. Acute infection may occur with limited or no symptoms. Symptoms include jaundice, yellowing of the skin and eyes, dark urine, fatigue, nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain, clay coloured stools, fever, lack of appetite, itching, weight loss and headache.
If left untreated and unmanaged, Hepatitis B or C can lead to advanced liver scarring, liver cancer or liver failure. According to statistics. However, over ninety per cent of people with Hepatitis C can be cured of the virus within three to six months.
To prevent hepatitis, we must Wash our hands with soap after going to the toilet, consume food that has just been cooked, drink clean or boiled water, eat enough fruits and vegetables and get a vaccine for Hepatitis if you travel to places where Hepatitis may be endemic. People should also practice safe sex, only use clean syringes that have not been used by anyone else, desist from sharing toothbrushes, razors, or manicure instruments and only allow well sterilized skin perforating equipment for tattoo, acupuncture and others. Those who are infected should cover open wounds and go easy on alcohol.
Therefore, let us join hands to eliminate Hepatitis.
