A working meeting on the detection and registration of viral hepatitis among the population of the Republic of Tajikistan was held in Dushanbe, according to the Ministry of Health and Social Protection of the Population.

The meeting addressed issues related to the improvement and quality enhancement of laboratory analyses (both public and private), mandatory screening before surgical and dental procedures, and the identification of infection sources among patients. It was also decided to create a unified database for the registration of viral hepatitis.

It is important to note that viral hepatitis is classified into the following types: A, B, C, D, E, F, and G. Hepatitis A and E are severe infectious diseases. In our country, only 5 types are identified (A, B, C, D, and E).

Viral hepatitis is one of the most serious health problems worldwide, with the number of cases increasing globally. According to research from the State Institute of Gastroenterology of the Republic of Tajikistan, the prevalence of hepatitis among the adult population ranges from 4% to 6%, with hepatitis C ranging from 3% to 5%.

Currently, 95-100% of patients with chronic hepatitis C are completely cured with new antiviral medications. Patients with hepatitis B are monitored and periodically receive antiviral treatment based on liver function and viral load.

According to experts, acute hepatitis most commonly starts with the following symptoms: weakness, fatigue, fever, jaundice of the eyes and skin, dark yellow urine, and changes in stool color.

However, chronic hepatitis often progresses without clinical manifestations and is only detected through laboratory tests.

A healthy person should always wash their hands and avoid drinking untreated water to prevent this disease. Additionally, parents need to ensure that newborns are vaccinated against hepatitis viruses in maternity hospitals or clinics. If viral hepatitis occurs at home or among neighbors, those around the patient should exercise caution. It is essential to disinfect household appliances, clothing, bed linen, and medical instruments used by the patient with chlorine-containing solutions.

Source: Khovar.tj