Dimapur, August 7 (MExN): In continuation with the observation of World Hepatitis Day 2021, an awareness programme on hepatitis was organized at the CMO’s conference hall in Dimapur on August 7 for NGOs and allied departments.
Deputy Chief Medical Officer Dr Antoly Suu delivered a presentation on the National Viral Hepatitis Control Programme (NVHCP) implementation and framework.
Resource person Dr Neilasakuo Linyii, Sr Specialist, DHD oriented the participants on viral hepatitis and its types. He stated that Hepatitis A and Hepatitis E are transmitted through contaminated water and food, and can be cured without any intervention; however Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C are very infectious and will become chronic. While Hepatitis D is another common hepatitis, it requires concomitant infection with Hepatitis B, he added.
He also presented the global scenario and the country’s scenario on viral hepatitis.
He informed that the NHVCP is an intervention of the Government of India with an aim to combat hepatitis and eliminate viral hepatitis C by 2030 by providing free screening, diagnosis and treatment.
This programme is in its initial stage; however, the services will soon be made available even at the grassroot level, he said, while adding that vaccine for Hepatitis B is available and although there is no vaccine for Hepatitis C, it is easily manageable and curable.
Renbothung, Kripa Foundation shared his experience living with hepatitis and his activism towards bringing affordable treatment to others with hepatitis.
Abou Mere, Director, Kripa Foundation informed that, earlier the drugs for Hepatitis had many side effects. However, the new drugs are now safer and so far, no adverse effects have been reported.
He also advised other NGOs to keep themselves aware of the many schemes initiated by the government and avail the services and benefits while urging them to support and co-operate with the Health department and work together to eliminate the diseases.
