July 28 is observed globally as World Hepatitis Day. This year, it is held under the theme “Hepatitis: Let’s Find the Missing Millions,” according to the National Center for Infectious Diseases of Armenia.
Viral hepatitis is classified among infectious diseases that target liver cells. These illnesses may present either acutely or chronically. There are several types of hepatitis—A through E—but both globally and in Armenia, the most serious public health concerns remain hepatitis B and C.
Hepatitis B and C share similar transmission methods. They can be transmitted:
- from mother to child at birth,
- through sexual contact,
- via the reuse or improper sterilization of medical tools, syringes, or needles,
- through transfusion of untested blood or blood components,
- via shared equipment during intravenous drug use.
To support early detection and prevention, the National Center for Infectious Diseases is offering free and anonymous testing in Yerevan, Gyumri, and Vanadzor as part of World Hepatitis Day initiatives.
