Hepatitis is a condition in which the liver swells up, causing inflammation and discomfort. It happens due to many reasons. There are five main types of viruses that cause viral hepatitis: Hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E.
On World Hepatitis Day, we all come together to eliminate hepatitis. As per WHO data, viral hepatitis B and C are solely responsible for 95% of hepatitis-related deaths worldwide. The report claims that 1.34 million lives were lost in 2024.
Read this blog to learn what you can do to spread awareness about hepatitis on 28th July. Also learn more about hepatitis and how to avoid this communicable disease.
World Hepatitis Day 2026 Theme
So far, there has not been any theme decided yet for World Hepatitis Day 2026. The objective of a world health day theme is to set the tone for the day. It encourages people to participate and spread the word.
The theme highlights the need to make hepatitis prevention, testing, treatment, and care accessible to everyone, regardless of their location, income, or background. It emphasizes building healthcare systems that are equitable and affordable so that people living with hepatitis can receive timely diagnosis and treatment without facing financial or social barriers.
The goal is to ensure that no one is left behind in the fight against hepatitis. The theme also places people affected by hepatitis at the centre of decision-making. Rather than being passive recipients of care, individuals living with hepatitis should be actively involved in shaping policies, healthcare services, awareness campaigns, and accountability measures.
By respecting human rights, reducing stigma, and encouraging meaningful community participation, countries can create more effective and compassionate responses that help move closer to eliminating hepatitis as a public health threat.
History of World Hepatitis Day (WHD)
World Hepatitis Day (WHD) was established to raise global awareness about viral hepatitis and to encourage efforts toward its prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. The day is observed annually on July 28, chosen to honour the birthday of Dr. Baruch Blumberg, the scientist who discovered the hepatitis B virus and developed the first hepatitis B vaccine.
The first World Hepatitis Day was organised in 2008 by the World Hepatitis Alliance in partnership with the World Health Organisation (WHO). Since then, it has grown into a global movement with governments, health organisations, and communities worldwide coming together to promote education and action against hepatitis.
Over the years, World Hepatitis Day has played a crucial role in bringing attention to the burden of hepatitis, advocating for better healthcare policies, and pushing for increased access to vaccines and treatments. It continues to be a vital platform to unite people worldwide in the fight against viral hepatitis and its complications, such as liver cancer.
What are the Prevention Tips for Hepatitis Virus?
Hepatitis prevention is crucial to reducing the global burden of liver disease. While some types of hepatitis can be prevented with vaccines, others require changes in behaviour and public health measures. By understanding how each type is transmitted, we can take effective steps to protect ourselves and others.
Vaccination
Hepatitis A and B can be effectively prevented through vaccination. The hepatitis B vaccine also indirectly protects against hepatitis D, which only occurs in those already infected with hepatitis B.
These vaccines are safe, widely available, and recommended for all infants, healthcare workers, and high-risk individuals.
In some regions, a hepatitis E vaccine is available, mainly for use in outbreak situations, although it is not yet globally accessible.
Safe Food and Water Practices
Hepatitis A and E are transmitted through the faecal-oral route, usually from contaminated food or water.
To prevent infection, drink only clean, safe water, eat properly cooked food, and practice good hand hygiene, especially in areas with poor sanitation.
Avoid raw or undercooked shellfish and food from questionable sources while traveling.
Safe Sex Practices
Hepatitis B and, less commonly, hepatitis C can be spread through unprotected sex.
Using condoms and being aware of your partner’s health status can significantly reduce the risk.
Individuals with multiple sexual partners or those with STIs should be regularly tested.
Avoid Sharing Personal Items
Never share razors, toothbrushes, or nail clippers, as they can carry traces of infected blood.
People who inject drugs should use new, sterile needles every time and avoid sharing injection equipment.
Safe Medical and Cosmetic Procedures
Always ensure sterile equipment is used during medical procedures, blood transfusions, dental care, tattoos, or piercings.
Only visit licensed and reputable providers who follow strict hygiene and sterilization standards.
This World Hepatitis Day, don’t ignore symptoms like fatigue, jaundice, or abdominal discomfort.
Consult our hepatologists in Gurgaon for diagnosis, vaccination, and treatment guidance.
Blood Screening and Organ Donation
In healthcare settings, proper blood screening before transfusions and ensuring safe organ transplants help prevent the spread of hepatitis B and C.
This is especially important in regions where access to reliable screening is limited.
Maternal Screening and Infant Vaccination
Pregnant women should be screened for hepatitis B. If positive, appropriate steps, including immediate vaccination of the newborn, can prevent transmission from mother to child.
Newborns should receive the hepatitis B vaccine within 24 hours of birth as part of routine immunisation.
How Artemis Hospitals Help Patients with Hepatitis?
At Artemis Hospitals, patients with hepatitis receive proper care from our experts (gastroenterologists, hepatologists or liver specialists). We at Artemis provide advanced diagnostic services, including blood tests, imaging studies, and liver function assessments, to accurately identify the type and severity of hepatitis. Early diagnosis allows doctors to create personalized treatment plans that address each patient's specific needs and help prevent complications.
Beyond medical treatment, Artemis Hospitals focuses on long-term liver health through continuous monitoring, patient education, nutritional guidance, and preventive care. Whether a patient is managing viral hepatitis, autoimmune hepatitis, or liver-related complications, the multidisciplinary team works together to provide coordinated care aimed at improving outcomes and enhancing quality of life. With access to modern technology and expert clinical support, patients can receive timely and effective hepatitis management under one roof.
Article by Dr. Giriraj Bora
Chairperson - Liver Transplant & Sr. Consultant - GI & HPB Surgery
Artemis Hospitals
