The Department of Health, Bandipora, today organised a one day awareness cum discussion programme on various aspects of Hepatitis by observing the World Hepatitis Day-2024 under National Viral Hepatitis Control Programme. The main function of World Hepatitis Day under the theme ‘One life One Liver’ was observed at District Hospital Bandipora and was presided over by Deputy Commissioner (DC) Bandipora, Shakeel-ul Rehman as the chief guest.
The experts and doctors discussed the theme ‘One Life, One Liver’ with healthcare professionals and paramedical staff on World Hepatitis Day to explore the challenges and opportunities in Hepatitis prevention, diagnosis and treatment from the medical aspects, common misconceptions along with the measures and ways to prevent the spread of Hepatitis.
Speaking on the occasion, Chief Medical Officer Bandipora, Dr M Rafi Salathi said every year the department conducts a series of campaigns to raise awareness about the viral hepatitis, promote prevention strategies, and to encourage testing and treatment options to mark World Hepatitis Day under the NVHC programme.
The DC, while addressing the gathering, stressed the awareness campaigns with regard to prevention and curative measures of Hepatitis. He also directed for the proper screening and diagnosis of each and every person. He asked officers to organize drug de-addiction programs at the Block and village level alongside educating people about the fatal consequences of Hepatitis and other diseases.
He further emphasized that the need of the hour is to prevent contamination of water and the use of untreated water to prevent any Hepatitis outbreak. He directed the Medical Superintendent of the District Hospital to ensure the proper handling of bio medical wastes in the hospital and to ensure early rapid testing of each visitor.
He called for expanded access for screening and testing at each Community Health Center, Sub Health centers, and at District Hospital. Speaking on the occasion, Chief Medical Officer Bandipora, informed that 3880 tests were conducted during the ongoing year for Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C. Out of 3880 cases, 21 were tested positive for Hepatitis B and 01 for Hepatitis C.
In his concluding address, Medical Superintendent ensured his continued and committed efforts in providing tests and follow-up services with proper counselling on the significance of immunisation and spreading awareness among the masses in accordance with the set guidelines for the prevention of all variants of Hepatitis.