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5 Million Nigerians killed by deadly virus Haptititis check yourself ?

Posted by cozzy webtatafo on May 10, 2009 at 8:31pm
An estimated 5 million Nigerians have, so far, died as a result of being infected with the deadly Hepatitis B virus, while 19 million others have also been infected. A medical expert, Dr Ipalibo Wokoma disclosed this in Port Harcourt during a one-day workshop organised for journalists in Rivers State by the Society for Gastroenterology & Hepatology in Nigeria (SOGHIN). In a presentation titled “Are You Number 12,” Dr Wokoma said one, in 12 people, worldwide, are infected with Hepatitis B or C. Wokoma, who decried the low level of awareness on the Hepatitis B and C virus in the country, revealed that the disease is 50-100 times more infectious than HIV. Like Hepatitis B, Dr Wokoma emphasized the Hepatitis C is also a silent killer as people live with the viruses for many years without significant symptoms or knowing they are infected. According to him, “the Hepatitis B virus is spread through direct contact with infected blood as well as most major body fluids while Hepatitis C is spread through direct contact with infected blood,” pointing out some of the symptoms to include nausea, fatigue, aching muscles and joints, poor concentration, loss of appetite, among others. Wokoma disclosed that if left untreated or discovered too late, the disease could lead to liver cancer, transplant or untimely death, advising that people should get tested. “There is a simple test – generally a blood test – for both Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C. If you are diagnosed with Hepatitis B or C, you will face many challenges, but it is better to confront the disease head on, know how to avoid transmitting the infection and consider your treatment options and self management strategies,” he advised. He revealed that SOGHIN, a professional body made up of Nigerian physicians, surgeons, pathologists and allied health professionals, has chosen May 19, the World Hepatitis Day to raise awareness of the disease among the populace.
Tags: 5, Haptititis, Million, Nigerians, by, deadly, killed, virus
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