The Head of the Liberia office of Absolute Health Services Based in Ghana, Mr. Samuel Nantey Quoa has raised alarm over the spread of another deadly disease known as Hepatitis B which he said has claimed the lives of over 50% of the world population.

Mr. Quoa made the disclosure over the week while addressing the World Hepatitis Day at the United Miracle Bible Church in the edifice of the Addo Mills School on Barnersville Road, outside Monrovia.

He said the deadly disease which is next to AIDS can be contracted and has the propensity of affecting the liver, but wondered why the Ministry of Health authorities could not observe this day as is done worldwide.

In his message, Mr. Quao advised Liberians to be mindful of this deadly disease and called on all Liberians to join the Hepatitis campaign, as according to him, the disease is on the increase throughout the world with Liberia of no exception. He also called on government officials, religious leaders and institutions and civic organizations to join the campaign.

He further admonished Liberians and other residents within the territorial boundaries to take the Hepatitis B vaccine for prevention. "the vaccine is available in clinics, pharmacies and health centers, he said.

Giving a brief history, Mr. Quoa said the deadly disease was discovered by an American Doctor Baruch Samuel Blumberg in 1967. Dr. Blumberg was born on May 28, 1925.

According to him, July 28 is set aside as World Hepatitis day and is observed every year on this day.

According to research, Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver, most commonly caused by a viral infection. There are five main hepatitis viruses, referred to as A, B, C, D and E. Hepatitis A is an acute disease, while hepatitis B and C viruses have a chronic course and are likely to result in complications such as hepatic (liver) cancer and cirrhosis.1

Hepatitis A and E are typically caused by ingestion of contaminated food or water. Hepatitis B, C and D usually occur as a result of parenteral contact with infected body fluids (such as from blood transfusions). Hepatitis B is also transmitted by sexual contact.

Clinical presentation of hepatitis varies from individual to individual and with the etiology of infection. Some patients may remain entirely asymptomatic, whereas others may present with rapid onset of fulminant hepatic failure. There is no specific treatment for acute infection. The management of chronic cases is discussed on individual topics.