By Editor
In commemoration of the World Hepatitis Day, the Speaker, State of Osun House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Timothy Owoeye has admonished Nigerians to get screened for the Hepatitis virus
The Speaker in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Kunle Alabi emphasised the need for people to be aware of the existence of the killer virus so as to halt the transfer in the country.
Owoeye noted that getting screened will afford people of the opportunity to identify their risk factor stating that Nigerians can reduce the risk of contracting or transmitting the viruses with awareness and screening.
He stated, “Hepatitis refers to an inflammatory condition of the liver. It is commonly caused by a viral infection, but there are other possible causes of hepatitis, including autoimmune hepatitis and the one that occurs as a secondary result of medications, drugs, toxins and alcohol.
“Getting screened is to check to see if you have a hepatitis infection, the viruses are spread in different ways causing different symptoms.
“There are 5 main hepatitis viruses reffered to as types A, B,C,D and E. Hepatitis is most often spread by contact with contaminated faeces or by eating tainted food, sharing needles with infected person, tattoo and unprotected sexual intercourse among others”
The Speaker held that for a society to be free from the virus, there is the need for people to get vaccinated for hepatitis A and B and the use of condom during sex.
Owoeye also advised that people must avoid sharing needles to take drugs and the practice of good personal hygiene such as thorough hand washing with soap and water.