Ogun State in southwest Nigeria has launched free hepatitis screening and subsidized vaccinations across six hospitals, partnering with Emzor Pharmaceuticals to mark 2025 World Hepatitis Day. The initiative, announced by Health Commissioner Dr. Tomi Coker at a press briefing in Abeokuta, aims to curb the spread of the often-silent disease while raising awareness under the global theme “Hepatitis: Let’s Break It Down.”
Services are available at hospitals in Ijaiye Abeokuta, Ijebu-Ode, Ilaro, Ota, Isara, and Ifo, targeting early detection of hepatitis B and C—viruses responsible for severe liver damage and chronic infections. Coker underscored the urgency of testing, noting that 50% of hepatitis B and C carriers show no symptoms, delaying diagnosis until complications arise. Common signs, when present, include jaundice, abdominal pain, and dark urine.
“Unlike other illnesses, hepatitis doesn’t announce itself,” Coker cautioned, comparing its stealth to HIV. “Testing is the only way to know your status.” Those testing negative can access discounted vaccines, prioritized for high-risk groups: newborns, unvaccinated minors, healthcare staff, pregnant women, and individuals with multiple sexual partners. Transmission routes, including shared needles, childbirth, and unprotected sex, were detailed to emphasize prevention.
By 2026, the state aims to screen 200,000 residents, expand services to all senatorial zones, and ensure 95% of newborns receive hepatitis B vaccines at birth through primary health centers. A dedicated data dashboard will track progress and enhance transparency, Coker added.
Akinpelu Tayo of Youth Future Savers Initiative praised the government’s commitment, stressing that hepatitis B remains preventable but perilous when undetected. “The danger lurks unseen,” he warned. “You might feel fine until it’s too late.” The campaign reflects growing efforts in Nigeria to address viral hepatitis, which affects millions globally, often in low-resource regions lacking widespread testing infrastructure.
