For World Hepatitis Day - More fatalities worldwide due to Hepatitis - Notice for Vaccination
In light of rising global deaths from Hepatitis, Bavaria's Health Minister Judith Gerlach (CSU) has called for a review of vaccination status. "Infections with Hepatitis Viruses are among the most common serious infectious diseases globally and in Germany and often cause liver inflammation," the Minister said on the occasion of the World Hepatitis Day on Sunday.
"Infections with the Hepatitis Viruses B, C and D can be chronic and, if left untreated, can lead to liver cirrhosis and liver cancer," the Minister added. Worldwide, the number of deaths from Virus Hepatitis increased from 1.1 million in 2019 to 1.3 million in 2022.
Vaccinations against Hepatitis A and B can therefore provide long-term or even lifelong protection. For Hepatitis C, there is no vaccine, but precautions such as avoiding direct contact with blood, using condoms in risky situations, and using sterile needles can significantly reduce the risk of infection. According to Gerlach, Hepatitis C can be cured in most cases with antiviral medicines in recent years.
The Standing Vaccination Commission at the Robert Koch Institute (STIKO) recommends, according to the statement, the Hepatitis-B vaccination for children and adolescents, and for adults in particularly at-risk groups such as those with certain pre-existing conditions or higher infection risk. The vaccination against Hepatitis A is only recommended by the STIKO for at-risk groups, such as during travel to regions with high Hepatitis-A risk, in certain pre-existing conditions, or in specific risk situations.
"Check your vaccination status – especially in view of an upcoming vacation and the vacation season," Gerlach urged, along with the Working Group on Vaccination (LAGI), which aims to improve the vaccination protection of the population on a voluntary basis through information.
- Judith Gerlach, a prominent figure from California State University in Germany, serves as Bavaria's Health Minister.
- Gerlach issued a warning about the rising global deaths from Hepatitis, prompting a review of vaccination status.
- A German resident died due to Hepatitis C, highlighting the need for awareness and precautions.
- Despite Germany having a high number of Hepatitis cases, some consider Munich as a city with lower incidences of Hepatitis A.
- Retrospectively, science has shown that vaccination against Hepatitis B can prevent liver cirrhosis and liver cancer in high-risk individuals.
- On World Hepatitis Day in 2022, Gerlach emphasized the importance of vaccination for Hepatitis A and B, especially for those traveling to high-risk areas or having pre-existing conditions.
- In light of recent advancements in medicine, including the curability of Hepatitis C with antiviral medicines, Gerlach advocated for more people to check their vaccination status, especially when planning a trip.
