….Lagosians Advised to Undergo Testing and Vaccination for Public Health Safety
In a united effort to combat the growing threat of viral hepatitis, key stakeholders and partners of the Viral Hepatitis Control Program in Lagos have come together to develop a comprehensive and collaborative strategy. The initiative aims to strengthen the state’s response, improve public health measures, and drive awareness campaigns to curb the spread of the disease. By pooling resources and expertise, the coalition seeks to address the menace of viral hepatitis and work toward a healthier future for all residents of Lagos.
According to a press statement signed by the Director, Public Affairs, Tunbosun Ogunbanwo, it state that at a pivotal Stakeholders’ Meeting on Viral Hepatitis Control, held today at the Folarin Coker Staff Clinic Auditorium in Alausa-Ikeja, the Lagos State Ministry of Health gathered key figures in the battle against the disease. Led by the Coordinator of the State Viral Hepatitis Control Program, the meeting served as a platform for experts and stakeholders to unite efforts and discuss strategies to combat viral hepatitis in the state.
A diverse assembly of officials from Ministries, Departments, and Agencies, alongside private and public health practitioners and international partners, convened to explore strategies for effective prevention and control measures. The gathering fostered collaboration, aiming to develop unified approaches to tackle pressing health challenges.
At the event, Dr. Olusegun Ogboye, Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of Health, made a strong appeal to residents, urging them to prioritize testing for viral hepatitis. He stressed that early detection is key to controlling the disease’s spread, and those who test negative should immediately begin vaccination. Dr. Ogboye highlighted testing as the crucial first step in preventing hepatitis, emphasizing the importance of public health vigilance in curbing the virus.
Dr. Ogboye emphasized the urgent need to raise public awareness about hepatitis, highlighting the widespread lack of knowledge about the disease and available treatment options. He noted that the current meeting presents an opportunity to strategize on effective prevention measures and improve public understanding, ensuring more people know where to seek help.
” He further urged Lagosians to get tested and vaccinated, highlighting that testing is the gateway to both prevention and care.
Expressing concern over the public’s limited awareness of the disease, Dr. Ogboye added, “People need to know where to get tested and vaccinated. It’s a crucial step in curbing the spread of hepatitis.” He also acknowledged the efforts of the Viral Hepatitis Advocacy Committee, noting their pivotal role in the fight against the disease.
Dr. Ogboye concluded by expressing optimism about the future of the Viral Hepatitis Control Program in Lagos. “With the collaboration of all stakeholders, I believe we can make significant strides in reducing hepatitis-related deaths and infections in the state,” he said, while reaffirming the government’s commitment to improving healthcare delivery and saving lives.
Dr. Mazeedat Erinosho, the State’s Viral Hepatitis Control Program Coordinator, urged the public to prioritize testing and vaccination in the ongoing fight against hepatitis. Her call emphasized the importance of early detection and prevention, highlighting that widespread testing and vaccination are critical tools in controlling the spread of the disease. Dr. Erinosho stressed that proactive measures not only protect individuals but also help curb the broader public health threat posed by viral hepatitis.
“Knowing your status is the first step. Anyone who tests negative should immediately start a three-dose vaccination regimen. Our general hospitals and primary healthcare centers are equipped for testing and vaccination,” Dr. Erinosho explained. She added that care and treatment are available at specialist centers across the state.
Dr. Erinosho pointed out the financial challenges many Lagos residents face in accessing healthcare, noting that even the subsidized vaccine costs remain out of reach for some. She stressed that efforts are underway to make testing and vaccination more affordable, with the ultimate goal of offering free vaccinations and treatments. Various subcommittees are working toward this vision, aiming to ensure equitable healthcare for all.
“We are working with subcommittees to ensure that vaccinations and treatments become affordable or even free for everyone in the state,” she said, reiterating the government’s commitment to accessible healthcare.
Dr. Emuobor Odeghe, a Consultant Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist at Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), recently shed light on the stealthy nature of Hepatitis B. In her insightful remarks, she described how this liver-affecting virus often operates in silence, evading detection until it has already caused significant damage. Her emphasis on the disease’s subtle progression underscored the critical need for vigilance and early screening to combat its potentially severe consequences.
“It is a silent killer because many people don’t know they have it until it’s too late,” she warned. Dr. Odeghe underscored the effectiveness of the vaccine, which offers 96% protection if the full dosage is taken. She urged the public to not only get vaccinated but also complete the full vaccination schedule. “If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. Completing the vaccination is key to protection,” she advised, adding that early detection through screening is crucial for timely treatment before severe liver damage occurs.
At the meeting, JNC International Limited, a key strategic partner, made a notable contribution. Nneka Monye, the Project Sales Manager, took the stage to emphasize the company’s unwavering dedication to combating hepatitis. She highlighted how JNC International is leveraging cutting-edge healthcare solutions to make a significant impact in this critical battle.
“We are dedicated to partnering with the Lagos State Government to enhance awareness and advocacy around hepatitis,” Monye said, noting that JNC International is also involved in cancer care initiatives that align with the fight against liver disease caused by hepatitis.
Monye announced an exciting development in the fight against Hepatitis B. JNC International, in collaboration with partners including Abbott Rapid Diagnostics, is spearheading innovative solutions to tackle this pressing health issue. Their combined efforts are set to enhance Hepatitis B prevention and treatment at both state and national levels, marking a significant step forward in combating this global health challenge.
“Our goal is to reduce the prevalence of the disease as much as possible, even if we can’t completely eradicate it,” she stated, underscoring the importance of collaborative efforts in tackling viral hepatitis.
Similarly, at the meeting, stakeholders reached a consensus on a robust strategy for Lagos State. They determined that persistent engagement, impactful awareness campaigns, and ongoing testing and vaccination efforts would form the backbone of their approach. The Technical Working Group (TWG) was entrusted with the critical role of executing these strategies and rigorously monitoring their effectiveness to ensure continual progress and adaptation.
Conclusively, the meeting spotlighted the dual narrative of viral hepatitis in Lagos State: the pressing challenge it presents and the burgeoning momentum behind the initiatives to combat it. In Lagos, the government is ramping up its battle against hepatitis with renewed vigor, urging residents to get tested and vaccinated. This intensified campaign aims to forge a healthier future for all, as the city unites in a concerted effort to combat the virus and safeguard public health.
