World Hepatitis Day”: Public urged

Hoshiarpur | Daljee Ajnoha, July 28 :  On the occasion of World Hepatitis Day, the Health and Family Welfare Department, Punjab, under the directives of the state and with guidance from Civil Surgeon Hoshiarpur Dr Mandeep Kamal, organised awareness activities today across health centres under the Community Health Centre, Block Harta Badla. Health workers at various centres provided the public with detailed information about the causes, symptoms, prevention, timely testing and treatment of hepatitis. The department also appealed for community participation in the hepatitis elimination campaign and encouraged citizens to adopt a healthy lifestyle.
CHC in-charge Dr Manpreet Singh Bains said hepatitis is a serious liver disease that, if detected and treated early, can prevent severe complications. He explained that hepatitis mainly occurs in five types — A, B, C, D and E. Hepatitis A and E spread through contaminated water and unhygienic food, while hepatitis B and C are transmitted via unsafe blood transfusions, reuse of needles/syringes, unsterile tattooing equipment and unsafe sexual practices. Common symptoms include yellowing of the eyes and skin (jaundice), extreme fatigue, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, vomiting or nausea, and dark-coloured urine. He said that under the National Viral Hepatitis Control Program (NVHCP), testing and treatment for hepatitis B and C are available free of charge at government hospitals, and anyone suspecting infection should seek free consultation and testing at the nearest government health facility.
STS Bhupinder Kaur gave preventive advice, saying people should ensure only screened blood is used for transfusions, needles and syringes must never be reused, and vaccination recommendations should be followed. She emphasised that maintaining hygiene, opting for safe medical procedures and timely testing can largely prevent the disease. She also urged people to avoid alcohol and other intoxicants. “Hepatitis should not be feared but understood; anyone noticing jaundice or any liver-related problem should immediately visit their nearest government health centre for free treatment,” she said.
The Health Department appealed to all residents to stay informed about hepatitis, avoid rumours, get timely tests and, where necessary, receive treatment so they can protect themselves, their families and the community, and help break the chain of transmission.