Webinar Training – A Panel Discussion on ‘Hepatitis Free Future’ with Elimination of Hepatitis by 2030

Abstract

Background : Poornima University, in collaboration with Jodhpur School of Public Health, hosted aninsightful and interactive live global webinar on “Hepatitis Free Future” on 1st August 2020. Four speakersand six panellists addressed the current situation, preventive measures, and future directions for achievingthe target of hepatitis elimination by 2030Findings: Globally, Hepatitis B and C (HBV & HCV) accounts for 96% of all hepatitis mortality and morethan 300 million people are living with viral hepatitis. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that1 in 3 people worldwide has been infected with either HBV or HCV.Global uptake in childhood vaccinationis significant for HBV, but the birth dose for all infants is too low (nearly 39% percent). Despite vaccination,1.8 billion 5-year-old get infected every year with HBV.Various programs and projects are contributing tothe elimination of the Hepatitis to reach the international goal. Due to COVID-19 there would be setbackshowever we have all the tools within our reach and we must use them to get elimination, most importantlydeliver it to the people who need it the most, if we plan to succeed by 2030.Conclusion: Hepatitis claims the lives of millions of people globally each year.With prevention, treatment,diagnostics, and vaccination hepatitis elimination is attainable. Greater investment in eliminating hepatitiswill generate higher long-term returns. We have the tools, treatments, and strategies to combat thisinfectious disease. We need the support of various sectors to execute the plan, proper implementation ofthe idea, training, and awareness to the public domain. With leadership, resources, and multi-stakeholdercollaboration, elimination of viral hepatitis is achievable