The House of Representatives has initiated an urgent investigation into the alarming rise of hepatitis cases in the country, emphasizing the need for enhanced public awareness to combat the virus.
This decisive action came after the adoption of a motion proposed by Kwamoti Laori from Adamawa State during a plenary session in Abuja on Tuesday.
Hepatitis, characterized by inflammation of the liver, can be triggered by various viral and non-viral agents. Laori highlighted that the disease, which encompasses five main strains—A, B, C, D, and E—poses significant health risks, with types B and C being particularly dangerous, resulting in acute and chronic illnesses that affect hundreds of millions globally.
Citing the World Health Organisation’s 2024 Global Hepatitis Report, Laori noted the increasing mortality associated with viral hepatitis, which has now become the second leading cause of death worldwide. The report estimates that approximately 1.3 million lives are lost annually, equating to about 3,500 deaths per day, comparable to tuberculosis.
The findings indicate that Africa bears a heavier burden, with 5 to 10 percent of the population suffering from chronic hepatitis B infections. Alarmingly, Nigeria has the highest prevalence rates of hepatitis B and C on the continent, with over 20 million citizens, or more than 10 percent of the population, living with chronic infections.
Laori expressed grave concern that a large segment of the Nigerian populace is at risk of infection or fatality due to this viral disease.
In response, the House of Representatives has resolved to mandate the federal ministry of health and pertinent agencies to enforce mandatory testing, vaccination, and treatment for children under five years old. This measure aims to prevent mother-to-child transmission and ensure adherence to safety standards in both public and private healthcare settings across the nation.
Additionally, the House has instructed its committees on Healthcare Services, Information and National Orientation, and Legislative Compliance to oversee the implementation of these resolutions. The committees are tasked with delivering a report back within three weeks for further legislative action.
