Ontiretse Motingwa

The subject group Microbiology at the North-West University (NWU) recently facilitated an online webinar focusing on World Hepatitis Day.

Dr Hazel Tumelo Mufhandu, senior lecturer and deputy leader of the subject group was the facilitator, and Dr Nishi Prabdial-Sing, a principal scientist and virologist at the National Institute for Communicable Diseases in Johannesburg, was the keynote speaker.

World Hepatitis Day (WHD) takes places every year on 28 July, bringing the world together under a single theme to raise awareness of the global burden of viral hepatitis and to influence real change. This year’s theme was “I Can’t Wait”.

The webinar concentrated on raising awareness on viral hepatitis – an infection that causes liver inflammation and damage – and communicating the 2030 viral hepatitis B and C elimination goals.

Dr Prabdial-Sing discussed National Health Laboratory Services data from populations at risk for hepatitis B and C. She also examined advancements in the decrease of hepatitis B due to the successful hepatitis B vaccine programme in the country, and improved testing methods such as the switch from lab-based testing to point-of-care tests for hepatitis B and C.

“Our aim is to raise awareness about the need to simplify and extend hepatitis care to primary health centers, community-based venues, and areas beyond hospital premises," said Dr Mufhandu.

Dr Prabdial-Sing said that there is still a long way to go. “More must be done to help those who require testing and treatment to stop further transmissions in their circles and communities.”

“For the South African eradication programme to be a success, we need the political will and money to make testing more accessible and to make hepatitis treatment available to all," Dr Prabdial-Sing added.

Dr Nishi Prabdial-Sing.