Hepatitis outbreak prompts crackdown, testing drive

LHEAP survey reveals one in every five residents affected by deadly disease in Fauji Colony

RAWALPINDI:

Following an alarming rise in hepatitis cases in Rawalpindi's Fauji Colony area, extensive awareness and testing initiatives have been launched to shield residents from the growing health threat.

The Local Hepatitis Elimination and Prevention Program (LHEAP) has spearheaded this campaign, introducing testing and vaccination services to diagnose and combat hepatitis effectively.

One of the key focal points has been addressing hygiene lapses in establishments like barber shops, dental clinics, and tyre shops along Bokra Road, a bustling business hub adjoining the affected union council. The officials from the LHEAP programme have taken swift action, sealing off eleven barber shops, a dental clinic, and a tyre shop in response to their use of non-sterilised tools.

This crackdown is part of a broader effort to enforce cleanliness protocols and mitigate the spread of hepatitis within the community.

The prevalence of hepatitis in Fauji Colony has been alarming, with roughly one in every five or six residents affected by the disease, according to LHEAP's assessments.

Poor hygiene practices among residents and the negligence of cleanliness standards in local establishments have exacerbated the situation.

A pivotal aspect of the campaign has been community engagement, exemplified by the formation of a support group under the LHEAP programme. One such gathering drew fifty women, who were educated about preventive measures against hepatitis B and C, along with guidance on treatment options for those afflicted. Complimentary services, including free hepatitis testing and vaccinations, were provided post-discussion, emphasising the programme's holistic approach to combatting hepatitis.

LHEAP CEO Dr Ansar Ishaq highlighted the programme's strategic focus on Fauji Colony in Union Council 8, chosen based on surveys indicating a spike in hepatitis cases in the area. Factors like inadequate access to clean water and poor hygiene practices among the densely populated populace have been identified as major contributors to the escalating infections. The programme's initiatives include ongoing awareness campaigns, free testing, and treatment for hepatitis C patients, all made possible through collaborative efforts with self-help groups and philanthropic support.

Published in The Express Tribune, April 28^th, 2024.