More than 3million Ugandans are living with Hepatitis B; Government needs ush46bn to provide vaccines for all citizens

In 2011, the World Health General Assembly declared the 28th day of July every year World Hepatitis Day. However, due to a number of activities that have coincided with this day, Uganda could not join the rest of the World to commemorate this day. 

Uganda is commemorating the World Hepatitis Day today 1st August 2014 at the Mayor's Garden in Adjumani District under the theme "Hepatitis: Think Again." This is in recognition of the high prevalence of hepatitis and the associated deaths the world over.

L-R: Dr Jacinto Amandwa discussing with Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng

This day provides a chance for countries all over the world to learn about the devastating consequences of the disease and join the global partnership to fight it.

"More than 3million Ugandans are living with the deadly Hepatitis B and the worst bit of the situation is that currently the government cannot afford to provide free vaccinations for all Ugandans. The government needs Ush46bn to buy vaccination for everyone."

It further provides a unique opportunity for countries to come together to focus attention on the global threat of Hepatitis and promote actions to control it.

Director General of health services, Uganda Ministry of Health, Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng said that the government of Uganda needs  Ush46bn to provide Hepatitis B vaccination for all citizens.

Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng

"The vaccines are so expensive and the government cannot afford to provide free vaccination for all. Each does costs Ush40,000 ($16us dollars) per person," she added.

Dr. Aceng also warned that it is important that people get the vaccination  because once infected, the vaccine won't help.

She also commended the Chairperson LCV of Adjumani district (one of the most affected areas in Uganda) for passing a Bi-law that every home must have a pit latrine.

"Hepatitis A and B are both oral feacal; this means that one can contract the disease after eating food with feacal matter. Vaccines can be found at Ebenezer clinic in Kampala," she added.

Commissioner for Clinical Services in the Ministry of Health, Dr Jacinto Amandwa, said that treatment of this disease is very expensive and one will spend between ush200,000-300,000 on just tests before treatment.

Dr Jacinto Amandwa,

Dr. Amandwa said that Hepatitis B virus can be transmiteed through health care system by needle sticks injuries, sexual transmission, mother to child and blood transfusion.

"You are all aware of the epidemic of Hepatitis E that we are currently battling in the Napak district of Karamoja. This is due to poor sanitation

He also noted that the contribution of poor sanitation to the transmission of Hepatitis E is another concern especially with low latrine cover and lack of clean and safe water in many parts of the country.

   "Most victims panic and start using ARVs immediately but only 30% of the patients need to use that kind of treatment."