A public health expert, Dr. Aisha Bello, has called on the Nigerian government to make hepatitis testing and vaccination mandatory for children under five. This move aims to curb the spread of the virus and prevent long-term health complications.
“Children are particularly vulnerable to hepatitis infections, which can lead to chronic liver disease, cirrhosis, and even cancer in adulthood if not treated early,” Dr. Bello warned.
Bello in an interview with journalists on Tuesday, proposed that the government pass legislation requiring hepatitis testing and vaccination for all children under five.
“This would align with other mandatory immunisation programs in the country, such as those for polio and measles,” she explained. She emphasized the need for clear protocols for testing, vaccination, and enforcement to ensure consistency and widespread coverage.
Bello also highlighted the importance of enhancing healthcare infrastructure, adequate funding, and a nationwide public awareness campaign to support the hepatitis control initiative.
To ensure the success of this initiative, Dr. Bello suggested integrating hepatitis testing and vaccination into Nigeria’s routine immunization and maternal health programmes.
“This integration would ensure that all children receive the hepatitis B birth dose within 24 hours of birth, as recommended by the World Health Organisation (WHO),” she concluded.
