World Hepatitis Day

World Hepatitis Day is a global awareness day dedicated to the fight against hepatitis. Its mission is to inform as many people as possible about the disease and to encourage them to get tested. The date of July 28 was chosen in honor of Dr. Baruch Samuel Blumberg, who discovered the hepatitis B virus and developed a vaccine. For his work, he was awarded the Nobel Prize.

History

World Hepatitis Day was officially established in 2010 by the World Hepatitis Alliance, a non-profit organization representing more than 100 countries. The Alliance works closely with governments and partners to raise awareness about hepatitis and promote prevention, testing, and treatment around the world.

Important Facts About Hepatitis

• Hepatitis is classified as a global epidemic and affects people across all regions and populations.
• Globally, around 400 million people are living with a hepatitis infection.
• The virus is transmitted through contact with infected blood, sexual activity, and from mother to child during childbirth.
• Untreated hepatitis can lead to severe health complications, including liver failure and cancer.
• Medical advances have led to the development of effective vaccines and treatments. In some countries, hepatitis vaccination is required by law.
• Approximately 90% of people with hepatitis are unaware they are infected.
• The World Hepatitis Alliance has set a goal to eliminate hepatitis as a public health threat by 2030.

How to Take Part

Get tested and encourage your family and friends to do the same. Testing is available at most medical centers and is quick and simple. Share educational materials on social media to help raise awareness. Join local World Hepatitis Day events, or organize a fundraiser to support global efforts to eliminate the disease.

When is World Hepatitis Day in 2025?

World Hepatitis Day is observed on July 28 each year.

Observations