Somalia issues nationwide alert as hepatitis cases surge
In the advisory, Somalia's Ministry of Health urged the public to visit nearby health centers for testing and to take advantage of available vaccines.
The Somali Ministry of Health has announced a nationwide alert following a rapid increase in reported hepatitis infections.
In the advisory, the Ministry urged the public to visit nearby health centres for testing and take advantage of available vaccines.
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It further asked those with symptoms like yellowing of the skin or eyes, ongoing tiredness, pain in the stomach area, or nausea, to seek medical attention without delay.
Speaking during a press briefing on Tuesday, Somali Minister of Health Dr Ali Haji Adam said the rise in hepatitis cases is a national concern.
Dr Ali stated that cities and remote villages with inadequate healthcare systems are experiencing a surge in infections.
He warned that if the spread is not addressed quickly, it may pressure Somalia’s already strained health services.
“Hepatitis is a silent but deadly threat to public health. We must act to prevent its spread by scaling up testing, vaccination, and public awareness,” said Dr Ali.
Dr Ali called on civil society groups, medical workers, and faith leaders to help raise awareness about prevention measures, testing and vaccination.
The minister assured that the government is committed to working with local and international partners to improve access to health services and protect the population from future outbreaks.
Somalia’s health system faces a myriad of challenges that limit its ability to detect, respond, treat and control disease outbreaks on time. These include a shortage of trained doctors and nurses, a lack of proper diagnostic equipment, and ageing hospital buildings.
According to the Ministry, discussions are, however, ongoing with international health organisations to improve surveillance systems for disease tracking.
As part of the plan, mobile health units will be sent to hard-to-reach areas to offer basic healthcare services, including hepatitis screening and vaccination.
Hepatitis is a group of viral infections that affect the liver. If not detected early and treated properly, it can lead to serious liver damage, liver failure, and even death.
Hepatitis A is usually caused by consuming contaminated food or water. Hepatitis B and C, on the other hand, are mainly spread through contact with infected blood or other body fluids.
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