Pakistan has one of the highest incidences of hepatitis B & C in the region and by one estimate, 12 million people in our country are suffering from hepatitis B or C. Unfortunately, a large number of people suffering from chronic hepatitis remain unaware of their diagnosis. While hepatitis A and E can be transmitted through contaminated food or water which is also called the faecal-oral route, Hepatitis B, C and D are transmitted by infected blood and body fluids.”He highlighted the types of hepatitis that cause serious illness. “Hepatitis B, C & D require special attention because they often lead to prolonged illness and severe progressive liver damage, known as chronic hepatitis. A vaccine is available for hepatitis B, which makes it an important tool in controlling new cases of hepatitis B. Vaccination of children against hepatitis B, as part of national immunisation programmes, can effectively prevent future infection.

Source: The Nation July 29, 2021 00:33 UTC