Wokha: Health workers urged to promote free hepatitis services

By Admin

31 Jul, 2025

Spreading Awareness on World Hepatitis Day

Wokha, July 30 – In a significant step towards eliminating hepatitis, the Chief Medical Officer’s (CMO) office in Wokha observed World Hepatitis Day on July 28, highlighting the global theme, ‘Hepatitis: Let’s Break it Down.’ The event, held at the CMO’s conference hall, brought together healthcare professionals and community leaders to raise awareness and promote timely medical intervention.

Understanding the Threat of Hepatitis

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Chumdemo Kikon, Medicine Specialist at District Hospital Wokha, spoke about the dangerous consequences of hepatitis, especially when left untreated. He explained that hepatitis is primarily caused by viral infections and can lead to serious liver inflammation or even death. Focusing on Hepatitis B and C, Dr. Kikon emphasized that these types are transmitted through blood transfusions, unprotected sexual contact, shared needles among drug users, and from infected mothers to newborns during childbirth.

Free Testing and Treatment Available

Encouraging a proactive approach, Dr. Kikon informed that District Hospital Wokha has been offering free hepatitis testing and treatment since 2021. More than 3,000 individuals have benefited from these services. He stressed that financial constraints and social stigma are the main hurdles preventing many from seeking help and called upon health workers to actively educate the community about the availability of these essential services.

A Call to Health Workers and the Community

“Timely treatment can save lives,” Dr. Kikon asserted, urging all health workers to act as advocates in their communities. He highlighted the importance of early diagnosis, regular check-ups, and spreading accurate information to dispel myths surrounding the disease.

Honouring a Legacy and Strengthening Prevention

The event was initiated by Dr. Thungchanbemo Ezung, Chief Medical Officer of Wokha, who delivered the welcome and keynote address. He reminded the audience that World Hepatitis Day is observed annually in honour of Nobel Laureate Baruch Samuel Blumberg, the discoverer of the Hepatitis B virus. Dr. Ezung also emphasized that vaccination of newborns and public awareness remain the most effective ways to prevent hepatitis from spreading in the community.

Programme Highlights

The programme was chaired by Oponthung Kinghen, Consultant at Urban Primary Health Centre (UPHC), and the vote of thanks was presented by Lideno Tungoe, Peer Educator with the National Viral Hepatitis Control Programme (NVHCP).

As the battle against hepatitis continues, the event served as a reminder that breaking down barriers to testing and treatment starts with informed, compassionate, and proactive healthcare workers. Wokha’s initiative stands as an example of community-driven healthcare action that aims for a hepatitis-free future.