The Nasarawa State Government has commenced free hepatitis screening and vaccination for at least 1,000 civil servants as part of activities marking the 2026 World Hepatitis Day, amid growing concerns over the prevalence of the disease in the state.
The exercise, which began in Lafia, the state capital, is aimed at promoting early detection, prevention and treatment of viral hepatitis while increasing public awareness about the disease and its health implications.
Speaking during the programme, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Gaza Gwamna, described hepatitis as a major public health challenge in Nasarawa State, noting that the prevalence rates for both Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C are significantly higher than national averages.
According to him, Hepatitis B prevalence in the state stands at approximately 17 per cent, compared to the national average of 8.1 per cent.
“Our prevalence rate is higher than the national average. In Nasarawa State, we are still battling with Hepatitis B viral infection. The prevalence is about 17 per cent, while the national average is 8.1 per cent,” he said.
Gwamna further disclosed that Hepatitis C prevalence in the state is estimated at 13.1 per cent, considerably higher than the national figure.
He explained that the alarming statistics have prompted deliberate government interventions aimed at prevention, treatment and awareness campaigns.
The commissioner said the free screening and vaccination programme would run for three days and take place at the Ministry of Health premises.
He also revealed that the government is working with pharmaceutical companies to reduce the cost of hepatitis medication and make treatment more affordable for infected residents.
According to him, the cost of treating Hepatitis C has already been reduced by approximately 50 per cent through strategic partnerships and government intervention.
Gwamna highlighted additional programmes targeting vulnerable groups, including free Hepatitis C treatment for persons living with HIV/AIDS and treatment support for pregnant women diagnosed with Hepatitis B to reduce mother-to-child transmission.
Also speaking, the Programme Coordinator for HIV, Viral Hepatitis and Sexually Transmitted Infections Disease Control, Dr. Joshua Moses, urged residents to know their hepatitis status and seek prompt medical attention where necessary.
He noted that the theme for this year’s World Hepatitis Day is “Hepatitis: Let’s Break It Down,” stressing the need for greater public understanding of the disease.
Moses commended development partners, including Family Health International and Beacon Youth Initiative, for supporting the exercise.
Health experts warn that hepatitis, which causes inflammation of the liver, can lead to severe complications including liver failure, cirrhosis and cancer if left untreated.
