Esther Passaris Calls for United Action to Eliminate Hepatitis on World Hepatitis Day

Nairobi Woman Representative Hon. Esther M. Passaris has called on Kenyans to take proactive steps in the fight against hepatitis by embracing testing, raising awareness and working together to eliminate the disease as a public health threat.

Marking **World Hepatitis Day 2026**, Hon. Passaris urged individuals, families and communities to break the silence surrounding hepatitis by encouraging open conversations, early diagnosis and access to treatment.

"This World Hepatitis Day, let's raise awareness, end stigma, and encourage everyone to know their status. Together, we can work towards eliminating hepatitis as a public health threat. Take action today and get tested," she said.

This year's observance, themed **"Hepatitis: Let's Break It Down,"** underscores the importance of increasing public understanding of hepatitis, dispelling myths and ensuring that more people have access to life-saving prevention, testing and treatment services.

Hon. Passaris emphasized that hepatitis is both preventable and treatable, noting that early detection significantly improves health outcomes while helping to reduce transmission within communities.

She also highlighted the importance of vaccination, particularly against Hepatitis B, safe health practices and supporting those affected by the disease without discrimination or stigma.

The Nairobi Woman Representative reiterated that eliminating hepatitis requires collective action from government, healthcare providers, civil society, development partners and the public. She encouraged Kenyans to seek testing, embrace preventive measures and support national efforts aimed at achieving a hepatitis-free future.

Her message serves as a timely reminder that access to healthcare should be available to everyone, regardless of their background, and that no one should be left behind in the fight against viral hepatitis.

As the world commemorates World Hepatitis Day, Hon. Passaris called on all Kenyans to become champions of awareness by promoting regular screening, encouraging vaccination where appropriate and supporting those living with hepatitis with compassion and dignity.

She noted that by breaking barriers, ending stigma and prioritising early diagnosis, Kenya can make significant progress towards eliminating hepatitis as a public health threat and safeguarding the health of future generations.