burkina Faso Faces ⁢Hepatitis Challenge: Natural Immunity vs. Detection & Elimination Efforts

This article from Burkina24.com discusses the state of hepatitis in burkina Faso, highlighting contrasting viewpoints on its management and elimination.

Key Points:

* Dr. Soma's Perspective: Dr. Soma believes the human body possesses a strong natural immunity to hepatitis. ⁣He claims that 90% of infected individuals can eliminate the virus without even ⁤knowing they were sick, and that elimination can be achieved within six ⁣weeks.⁢ He supports vaccination as a protective ⁣measure for ⁢vulnerable children.

* Global & National Statistics: The World Health Organization (WHO) reports over 304 million hepatitis cases annually worldwide, leading to 1.3 million deaths from hepatitis B and C.In Burkina Faso, over 2 ⁤million cases of hepatitis B⁣ and 800,000 cases of hepatitis C are reported.

*⁤ Detection is a Major issue: Dr. Laurent MONYEnga, a WHO ⁢epidemiologist, emphasizes⁤ a critical problem: a large number of people ⁣are unaware of ⁢their hepatitis status. The national health data system struggles to ⁣identify all cases, hindering effective treatment and prevention. ⁣ He stresses the importance of detection⁢ for avoiding death and complications.

* WHO ⁢Support & National Goals: The WHO is providing technical and financial support to Burkina Faso's Ministry of Health,as the country⁣ has committed to eliminating hepatitis ⁤by 2030. This requires resources for awareness campaigns and targeted detection.

* Resource ⁤Needs: dr. MONYEnga highlights the need for resources to achieve the elimination goals, including funding for awareness programs and detection initiatives.

In essence, the⁢ article presents a⁢ tension between a belief ⁢in strong ⁤natural immunity (Dr. Soma) and the urgent need for widespread testing and treatment⁢ due ⁤to the high prevalence and frequently enough silent ⁢nature of the disease (Dr.MONYEnga/WHO). ⁢ The article underscores the challenges ⁢Burkina Faso faces in tackling hepatitis, particularly in identifying and reaching ⁣those ⁢who are unaware they are⁤ infected.