Global: Health experts are urging people to take hepatitis seriously, emphasizing that early screening and vaccination remain the most effective tools for preventing the disease and reducing the risk of severe liver complications. Doctors say millions of people worldwide are living with viral hepatitis without knowing they are infected because the disease often shows no symptoms in its early stages.
According to medical experts, hepatitis B and hepatitis C can silently damage the liver for years before symptoms appear, increasing the risk of liver cirrhosis, liver failure, and liver cancer if left untreated. Regular screening allows infections to be detected early, enabling timely treatment and reducing the chances of long-term complications. People at higher risk—including healthcare workers, pregnant women, and those with a family history of hepatitis—are encouraged to get tested.
Doctors also stress that vaccination is one of the most powerful ways to prevent hepatitis B, offering long-lasting protection against the virus. While there is currently no vaccine for hepatitis C, early diagnosis and modern antiviral medicines can cure most infections, helping prevent serious liver disease and reducing transmission.
Health professionals recommend maintaining good hygiene, avoiding the sharing of needles or personal items such as razors, ensuring safe blood transfusions, and practicing safe medical procedures to reduce the risk of infection. They also encourage people to speak with their healthcare providers about hepatitis screening and vaccination, particularly if they belong to a higher-risk group or have never been tested.
