Ouagadougou: The sectoral health program for the fight against viral hepatitis announced on Wednesday the commemoration of World Hepatitis Day on July 28, 2026, under the slogan "Hepatitis, let's talk about it!" Several activities are planned, including a fun run followed by aerobics, panel discussions, awareness campaigns, screenings, and a television program.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the program coordinator, Dr. Natyon Dieudonn© Soma, highlighted that viral hepatitis B and C remain a significant public health issue in Burkina Faso. The general population shows an estimated prevalence of 9.1% for hepatitis B and 3.6% for hepatitis C. A serosurveillance survey conducted in 2025 among pregnant women aged 15 to 45 revealed a prevalence of 5.92% for hepatitis B and 2.49% for hepatitis C.

Dr. Soma emphasized the silent progression of these diseases, which can lead to severe complications such as cirrhosis or liver cancer, often discovered late. This year's theme for World Hepatitis Day, "Let's Break Down the Barriers," aims to remove obstacles preventing access to information, screening, vaccination, and care.

The announced activities include official speeches, presentation of national statistics and response actions, testimonies from people living with hepatitis, and awareness sessions on modes of transmission and prevention. Voluntary screening campaigns, either free or at reduced cost, will be available in several reference centers.

The media is urged to play a more active role in raising public awareness. Burkina Faso is committed to the global health sector strategy, targeting a 90% reduction in new infections of hepatitis B and C and a 65% reduction in mortality related to their complications by 2030, in line with WHO guidelines.

Dr. Soma expressed gratitude to the WHO, technical and financial partners, and civil society organizations for their support in combating viral hepatitis in Burkina Faso.