Nigeria: In anticipation of World Hepatitis Day, here's what you need to know about the disease

The World Day of Hepatitis, observed on July 28 of each year, aims to awaken the global consciousness about hepatitis.

Hepatitis is the inflammation of the liver tissue.

B, C, D and E. The disease is considered a silent killer because if some people do not show symptoms, others develop yellow discoloration of the skin and whiteness of the eyes, a lack of Appetite, vomiting, fatigue, abdominal pain or diarrhea.

The most common cause of diseases are hepatitis viruses. It can also be caused by excessive consumption of alcohol, certain medications, infections, autoimmune diseases, among others.

All these groups of hepatitis affect the liver. Viral hepatitis B and C are major health problems affecting 325 million people worldwide.

Viral hepatitis is also the cause of liver cancer, resulting in 1.34 million deaths each year

Ten facts about hepatitis B and C:

1. Viral hepatitis B and C are major health problems, according to the WHO, viral hepatitis affects 325 million people worldwide

2. Hepatitis B and C are at the origin of liver cancer and cause 1.34 million deaths each year.

3. Hepatitis B and C are chronic infections that may not show symptoms for a long time, sometimes years or decades.

4. At least 60% of liver cancer cases are due to late testing and treatment of viral hepatitis B and C.

5. The low coverage of tests and treatments is the main gap to be filled in order to reach the global elimination goals by 2030.

6. The timely detection and treatment of viral hepatitis B and C can save lives.

7. Viral hepatitis has become a major killer due to lack of attention

8. Hepatitis can be prevented, diagnosed, treated and even cured.

9. Hepatitis B and C are communicable diseases.

10. Diseases can be transmitted through the sharing of sharp objects, sweats, dangerous blood transfusions among others.

Seven facts about the vaccine against hepatitis B

1. The vaccine against hepatitis B is made from parts of the hepatitis B virus

2. It can not cause infection with the hepatitis B virus.

3. The vaccine is usually given in three or four injections over a six-month period.

4. Infants should receive their first dose of hepatitis B vaccine at birth and will usually complete the series at 6 months of age.

5. All children and adolescents under 19 who have not yet received the vaccine should also be vaccinated.

6. The vaccine against hepatitis B is recommended for unvaccinated adults who are at risk of infection with the hepatitis B virus.

7. There is no known risk of being vaccinated against hepatitis B at the same time as other vaccines.