2024-07-28 15:35:09
July 28, 2024 | Ottawa (Ontario) | Public Health Agency of Canada
Today, on World Hepatitis Day, I want to raise public awareness about the importance of vaccination, screening, and treatment to eliminate the public health issue of viral hepatitis in Canada. Viral hepatitis is a liver infection. Worldwide, 354 million people live with hepatitis, and more than 1.1 million die from it each year.
In Canada, the three most common hepatitis viruses are viruses A, B, and C. Hepatitis A can be caused by consuming contaminated food or water, while hepatitis B and C are transmitted through contact with the blood of an infected person, by sharing needles, syringes, or other equipment used for drug consumption, or through unprotected sexual intercourse.
People with hepatitis may experience effects ranging from mild symptoms to severe liver damage. Some recover completely from the infection, while others become carriers and can unknowingly transmit it to others.
Early prevention, diagnosis, and treatment are essential to improve health outcomes. Hepatitis A and hepatitis B in adults, adolescents, and infants can be prevented through vaccination. Hepatitis C, on the other hand, can be cured with effective antiviral treatments, but harm reduction practices remain important to prevent reinfections.
Even though we have made significant progress in reducing viral hepatitis rates, this disease continues to be present across the country and can have serious health impacts. Estimates suggest that in 2021, 22 people per day contracted hepatitis C in Canada, and 262,000 people lived with chronic hepatitis B. The pandemic has created disruptions in routine childhood vaccination programs, which may have impacted the hepatitis B vaccination of school-age children and adolescents. To protect your health, I encourage you and your family to take the necessary steps to ensure you are up to date on your vaccinations by consulting a healthcare provider or visiting a travel health clinic preferably six weeks before travel, and getting tested if you think you are at risk.
To eliminate viral hepatitis, the entire community must mobilize. In February 2024, the Government of Canada launched the Government of Canada’s 2024-2030 Action Plan on Sexually Transmitted and Blood-Borne Infections (STBBIs), in consultation with community organizations, Indigenous partners, provinces and territories, researchers, healthcare professionals, and individuals with lived experience. The Action Plan aims to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections, such as hepatitis, and contributes to addressing stigma, dispelling misconceptions, fostering better understanding, and creating more inclusive and supportive environments for people living with a STBBI.
To help close the gap in populations where vaccination rates are lower, the Government of Canada has also been funding community initiatives through the Immunization Partnership Fund since 2016. These projects aim to reach individuals who are hesitant to get vaccinated in Canada, so they can make informed choices about vaccination.
Let’s work together to eliminate viral hepatitis. Consult a healthcare professional to ensure your vaccinations are up to date and learn about the prevention, screening, and treatment of viral hepatitis.
Future Trends in Hepatitis Awareness and Prevention in Canada
As we look ahead to a world increasingly focused on public health, the importance of hepatitis awareness, vaccination, and effective treatment is more vital than ever. With the Canadian government’s proactive approach, including the 2024-2030 Action Plan aimed at reducing sexually transmitted infections, we can anticipate a stronger community mobilization against viral hepatitis.
The current global landscape shows a demand for improved education about hepatitis transmission and prevention. Initiatives that target low vaccination rates in specific populations will likely gain traction, as community-led efforts remain crucial in shaping public perceptions. The funding provided by the Canadian government since 2016 to grassroots initiatives reflects a growing understanding that tailored approaches can make a significant impact on vaccination uptake.
Furthermore, advancements in technology will likely enhance screening and treatment processes for hepatitis. As telehealth becomes more integrated into healthcare, patients may find it easier to access necessary screenings and consultations without stigma. This shift could lead to earlier diagnosis and treatment, ultimately reducing the number of chronic cases and those unknowingly transmitting the virus.
The role of collaboration cannot be overstated. Partnerships between health organizations, indigenous communities, and research institutions will foster a holistic approach to combatting hepatitis. Incorporating diverse perspectives will help create inclusive policies that address the unique barriers faced by marginalized groups.
Lastly, there is an emerging focus on mental health as it relates to living with hepatitis. By addressing the stigma and misinformation surrounding the virus, we can create a supportive environment for those affected. Health campaigns will likely promote not only physical health measures but also emotional support systems as integral components in the fight against viral hepatitis.