World Hepatitis Day is observed on May the 19th. It aims to increase awareness worldwide of the diseases hepatitis B and hepatitis C. Its hope is to encourage the prevention and diagnosis of these two diseases, and increase the number of people who receive treatment. The day is organized by the World Hepatitis Alliance. This is a group that consists of over 200 different patients’ groups around the world. It represents around 500 million people globally who suffer from hepatitis. Its aim is to provide global leadership and support to halt the death toll and improve the lives of people living with hepatitis B and C. Its ultimate goal is “to work with governments to eradicate these diseases from the planet”.

Hepatitis is a disease that causes injury to the liver and can result in death. The disease causes tissue in the liver to become inflamed. Most cases of hepatitis are caused by a group of viruses. In other cases, things like alcohol or infections can cause the disease. The disease can make it impossible for the liver to function properly. This means the liver will not be able to remove harmful substances from our body, or make sure our blood is healthy. Symptoms include tiredness, muscle and joint aches, fever, vomiting, diarrhea, and headache. In serious cases, people lose their appetite, lose weight and have severe stomach pain. There is a vaccine against hepatitis B but scientists are still working on one for hepatitis C.

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