By Tracy Ohovwere
As part of activities marking the year 2025 World Hepatitis Day, the Edo State Government through its Office of the First Lady has reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing the well-being of residents through comprehensive health reforms, strategic policies, and innovative programmes that ensure access to quality and affordable healthcare services in the State.
The Coordinator, Office of the Edo State First Lady, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, gave the assurance while addressing staff in her office as part of activities marking the World Hepatitis Day, themed “Let’s Break it Down”, at the Government House in Benin City. She stressed the importance of health as it relates to the overall well-being of the State and its development.
According to Mrs. Anani, “As we gather today, I want to take a moment to talk about a critical health issue that affects us all, either directly or indirectly; Hepatitis. I believe it is essential that we prioritize this topic. Hepatitis is often misunderstood as just a single condition, but it encompasses a group of infectious diseases that cause liver inflammation and damage. The most common types are Hepatitis A, B, and C; each with different modes of transmission and affects on the body. Understanding the differences between these types is crucial in tackling the disease effectively”.
Mrs. Anani enumerated some of the symptoms and advised a quick medical attention to prevent deterioration, saying, “The symptoms of Hepatitis can be subtle at first, making it challenging to detect. Fatigue, jaundice, abdominal pain, loss of appetite and nausea are common signs that should not be ignored. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, I encourage you to seek medical attention promptly. Early detection and treatment can significantly improve outcomes and prevent long-term liver damage”.
She further emphasized the significance of strict adherence to basic health principles as a control measure and urged everyone to cascade the knowledge received to others.
She said, “Prevention is key in the fight against Hepatitis. Vaccines are available for Hepatitis A and B, and practicing good hygiene, such as washing your hands regularly and thoroughly, can go a long way in reducing the risk of transmission. For Hepatitis C, which is primarily spread through blood-to-blood contact, avoiding sharing of needles or personal items that may have come into contact with infected blood is crucial. By taking these simple precautions, we can significantly reduce the risk of infection.
“As members of staff, you are not only ambassadors of our organization but also influencers within your families and communities. I urge you to share the knowledge you have gained today with your loved ones and encourage them to take proactive steps in protecting their health. Together, we can create a ripple effect of awareness and education that will have a lasting impact on our community. Let us work together to promote a culture of health and wellness within our organization. By prioritizing Hepatitis awareness and education, we can take a significant step towards creating a healthier, more informed community”. She added.
The staff expressed profound gratitude for her time and valuable insights, acknowledging the prevalent low awareness of the infection. They also pledged commitment to disseminating the knowledge to their family, friends, and the wider community.
