World Hepatitis Day 2026: Breaking Down Barriers to Better Heal
Every year on July 28, communities around the world recognize World Hepatitis Day by raising awareness about viral hepatitis and encouraging people to get the information, testing, and care they need.
This year's theme, "Hepatitis: Let's Break It Down," is a reminder that knowledge saves lives. By breaking down misconceptions, stigma, and barriers to healthcare, we can help more people prevent hepatitis, get tested, and access effective treatment.
What is Hepatitis?
Hepatitis A (HAV)
How it spreads: Through contaminated food or water, or contact with an infected person’s bodily fluids.
What it does: Causes short-term liver inflammation that most people recover from completely.
How do I prevent it?: Get vaccinated! Vaccination is safe, effective, and widely available.
Hepatitis B (HBV)
How it spreads: From contact with infected bodily fluids, including during childbirth or used needles.
What it does: Can become a long-term infection that increases the risk of liver disease and liver cancer.
How do I prevent it?: Get vaccinated! Most Americans are vaccinated shortly after birth for HBV, but can require boosters in adulthood.
Hepatitis C (HCV)
How it spreads: Through contact with infected blood, most commonly by sharing needles or other equipment.
What it does: Often becomes a chronic condition likely to cause cirrhosis and liver cancer.
How do I prevent it?: Screening and treatment! Regular screening can catch the virus early and antiviral medication can cure it in a matter of weeks.
Why Testing Matters
HBV and HBC are often called “silent” infections because many people don’t know they have them until serious liver damage has occurred. That’s why routine screening is so important, especially for people with known risk factors, such as substance use disorder.
Early diagnosis can lead to life saving treatment, reduce the spread of infection, and improve long term health outcomes.
Eliminating Hepatitis Starts with Compassionate Healthcare
Communities across Appalachia, including the New River Valley, have been disproportionately affected by hepatitis. Factors such as limited access to healthcare, stigma surrounding substance use, and barriers to routine testing have contributed to higher rates of infection throughout the region. Stigma can prevent people from seeking care.
Anyone in the community can access free Hepatitis C testing at any New River Health District location, and the Community Health Center offers free or affordable testing at their locations. New River Health District and Rise Above collaborate every Thursday from 1pm to 3pm to offer mobile healthcare services, including Hepatitis C testing. No need to make an appointment during these walk-in hours! The mobile clinic provides a “non-judgmental and supportive environment” where information about substance use and medical care merge to empower the whole community.
For more information visit https://nrvroadtowellness.com/rise-above - knowing your hepatitis status is a powerful step towards informed decision-making and the long, healthy life you deserve!
