Uganda Intensifies Fight Against Hepatitis, Syphilis, and HIV

Uganda aims to break infection cycles by ensuring all newborns receive Hepatitis B vaccines within 24 hours of birth.  

Kampala   – The Ministry of Health has launched an integrated campaign to eliminate Hepatitis B, syphilis, and HIV by 2030, targeting high-risk populations across Uganda.

Health experts reveal alarming statistics: globally, a person dies from Hepatitis every 30 seconds. 254 million people worldwide live with chronic Hepatitis B. Additionally, 2.1% of pregnant Ugandan women test positive for syphilis.  

Dr. Ronnie Bahatungire from the Ministry emphasised the urgency of combined testing and treatment, noting these diseases often coexist. Dr. Miriam Ajambo warned that some Hepatitis strains can be fatal without prompt intervention.  

The national strategy aims to prevent mother-to-child transmission through mandatory antenatal testing, increase vaccine and treatment access, and raise public awareness about disease linkages. 

Uganda aims to break infection cycles by ensuring all newborns receive Hepatitis B vaccines within 24 hours of birth.