Hepatitis Screening in Ogun will cover 200,000 residents by 2026, with free tests, subsidised treatment, and vaccine access to fight hepatitis B and C

Hepatitis Screening in Ogun has taken a bold step forward as the state government announced plans to screen 200,000 residents for viral hepatitis between now and 2026.

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This ambitious initiative comes as part of Ogun State’s commitment to combat the deadly disease that claims a life every 30 seconds globally, according to the World Health Organization.

During a press briefing on World Hepatitis Day held at the Governor’s Office in Abeokuta, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Tomi Coker, emphasized the urgency of tackling this public health crisis.

“It is no longer acceptable that one in 10 Nigerians lives with hepatitis. The time for bold steps, strategic partnerships, and unwavering commitment is now,” she stated.

The campaign focuses on hepatitis B and C — the most dangerous strains — which can cause chronic liver disease, cirrhosis, and liver cancer.

Dr. Coker explained that these viruses spread through sexual contact, mother-to-child transmission during childbirth, and contaminated sharp objects, similar to HIV transmission pathways.

A critical challenge is that up to 50% of infected people show no symptoms, making early detection vital.

To fight the disease, Hepatitis screening in Ogun includes free testing across six state hospitals, subsidised vaccinations for those at risk, and linkage to care at major hospitals like Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital and the Federal Medical Centre in Abeokuta.

The state also prioritizes vulnerable groups such as pregnant women, healthcare workers, and youths.

Governor Dapo Abiodun’s administration is rolling out comprehensive efforts, including routine antenatal screening and free birth-dose vaccinations for newborns, which Dr. Coker described as essential to ending mother-to-child transmission.

The health commissioner also announced plans to launch a Hepatitis Data Dashboard to track progress and improve accountability.

She urged health workers, community leaders, and the media to intensify efforts in public education, hygiene, and vaccination promotion.

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By expanding Hepatitis screening in Ogun, the state aims to break the deadly cycle of hepatitis and save thousands of lives through early detection, treatment, and prevention.