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Stakeholders and Viral Hepatitis Control Program Partners in Lagos have united to strategize on a comprehensive and collaborative approach to curb the menace of Viral Hepatitis in the State.

During a crucial Stakeholders’ Meeting on Viral Hepatitis Control held today at the Main Auditorium of the Folarin Coker Staff Clinic, Alausa-Ikeja, the Lagos State Ministry of Health, through the Coordinator of the State Viral Hepatitis Control Program, brought together key players in the fight against the disease. The gathering included representatives from various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies, as well as private and public health practitioners, and international partners to discuss effective prevention and control measures.

Speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of Health, Dr. Olusegun Ogboye, urged all residents to prioritize testing for viral hepatitis and commence vaccination if found negative. He emphasized that testing is the first step toward preventing the spread of the disease.

Dr. Ogboye stressed the need to raise public awareness about hepatitis, saying, “A lot of people are not aware of the disease and where to get access to treatment. This meeting allows us to plan effective prevention and increase public knowledge.” He further urged Lagosians to get tested and vaccinated, highlighting that testing is the gateway to both prevention and care.

Expressing concern over the public’s limited awareness of the disease, Dr. Ogboye added, “People need to know where to get tested and vaccinated. It’s a crucial step in curbing the spread of hepatitis.” He also acknowledged the efforts of the Viral Hepatitis Advocacy Committee, noting their pivotal role in the fight against the disease.

Dr. Ogboye concluded by expressing optimism about the future of the Viral Hepatitis Control Program in Lagos. “With the collaboration of all stakeholders, I believe we can make significant strides in reducing hepatitis-related deaths and infections in the state,” he said, while reaffirming the government’s commitment to improving healthcare delivery and saving lives.

The State’s Viral Hepatitis Control Program Coordinator, Dr. Mazeedat Erinosho, echoed the call for testing and vaccination. “Knowing your status is the first step. Anyone who tests negative should immediately start a three-dose vaccination regimen. Our general hospitals and primary healthcare centers are equipped for testing and vaccination,” Dr. Erinosho explained. She added that care and treatment are available at specialist centers across the state.

Dr. Erinosho also highlighted the financial barriers to accessing care, noting that not all Lagosians could afford the subsidized cost of the vaccine. She emphasized ongoing efforts to make testing and vaccination affordable, with plans to eventually provide free vaccinations and treatment through various subcommittees.

“We are working with subcommittees to ensure that vaccinations and treatments become affordable or even free for everyone in the state,” she said, reiterating the government’s commitment to accessible healthcare.

In her remarks, Consultant Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist at Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), Dr. Emuobor Odeghe, highlighted the silent nature of Hepatitis B. “It is a silent killer because many people don’t know they have it until it’s too late,” she warned. Dr. Odeghe underscored the effectiveness of the vaccine, which offers 96% protection if the full dosage is taken. She urged the public to not only get vaccinated but also complete the full vaccination schedule. “If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. Completing the vaccination is key to protection,” she advised, adding that early detection through screening is crucial for timely treatment before severe liver damage occurs.

The meeting also featured contributions from strategic partners such as JNC International Limited, represented by Project Sales Manager, Nneka Monye. She reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting the fight against hepatitis through innovative healthcare solutions. “We are dedicated to partnering with the Lagos State Government to enhance awareness and advocacy around hepatitis,” Monye said, noting that JNC International is also involved in cancer care initiatives that align with the fight against liver disease caused by hepatitis.

Monye revealed that JNC International, alongside partners like Abbott Rapid Diagnostics, is working on bringing more solutions to combat Hepatitis B at both the state and national levels. “Our goal is to reduce the prevalence of the disease as much as possible, even if we can’t completely eradicate it,” she stated, underscoring the importance of collaborative efforts in tackling viral hepatitis.

Stakeholders at the meeting agreed that sustained engagement, awareness campaigns, and continuous testing and vaccination drives would be central to Lagos State’s strategy. The Technical Working Group (TWG) was tasked with ensuring that all agreed actions are implemented and regularly reviewed to assess progress.

The meeting highlighted both the challenge posed by viral hepatitis and the growing momentum behind efforts to control it in Lagos State. As Lagosians are urged to get tested and vaccinated, the government’s fight against hepatitis is set to intensify, with hopes of a healthier future for all.

By Tunbosun Ogunbanwo

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