Scientists have cried out for help over the killer disease Hepatitis. According to scientists, the disease has killed more individuals than the infamous HIV/AIDS virus and also coronavirus (COVID-19).
Mr. David Nwedu, a Public Health Specialist, said the approximate rate of Hepatitis B infection in the country is 11 percent and the approximate rate of Hepatitis C is 2.2 percent, which he said is accountable for over 26 million Nigerians with the virus.
Mr. Nwedu has warned Nigerians not to take the Hepatitis virus lightly, specifically the B strain, warning that it was not remedial and could lead to complicated liver issues. The transmission of the virus has been confirmed to be easier to get than HIV. This is because the virus is tough and can move through fluid mediums. The Hepatitis virus can live on an ordinary surface for up to a week it is easily transmissible for that time frame.
The Public Health Specialist has however assured Nigerians that Hepatitis is not a death sentence and that the most important thing one should know was their status, to know where to begin treatment. Nwedu further added that for the Hepatitis B virus, a vaccine is required which could immune the vaccinated individual for up to 30 years.