Hepatitis Rise in Rawalpindi: An Overview



In Rawalpindi, out of 29,317 blood tests, 128 tested positive for hepatitis B and 536 for hepatitis C. This shows a rising number of people with the disease in the city.

The Global Task Force from the US is leading a project in Rawalpindi. This project, named Local Hepatitis Elimination and Prevention Programme (LHEAP), aims to diagnose hepatitis B and C and provide free treatment.

Here's a breakdown:

  • Field workers went to 5,819 homes in Rawalpindi's union councils 10, 11, 14, and 15.
  • They tested 29,317 people. 128 had hepatitis B, 536 had hepatitis C, and 13 had both.
  • 12,462 people got vaccinated against hepatitis. This includes 8,568 who got their first shot for hepatitis B and 3,888 who got their second.
  • 175 people with hepatitis C are now on medication.

Once 100,000 people are screened, the next steps for the project will be decided.