India Strengthens Fight Against Viral Hepatitis with Free Screening and Treatment

India has intensified efforts to eliminate viral hepatitis through the National Viral Hepatitis Control Programme (NVHCP), offering free screening and treatment for Hepatitis B and C across the country. The programme focuses on prevention, early diagnosis, awareness, and improved access to healthcare services.

Hepatitis A and E mainly spread through contaminated food and water and are largely prevented through safe drinking water, sanitation, and hygiene. Hepatitis B is vaccine-preventable, with newborns receiving doses under the Universal Immunization Programme. Hepatitis C, which spreads through infected blood and unsafe injections, is treated with highly effective direct-acting antiviral medicines. Hepatitis D occurs only in people already infected with Hepatitis B and can be prevented through Hepatitis B vaccination.

The programme also integrates maternal health, blood transfusion, TB, and AIDS control initiatives to improve screening and treatment. Since 2018, free testing and treatment services have expanded from district hospitals to local health centres. A toll-free helpline (1800-11-6666) provides information on hepatitis prevention, testing, treatment, and available healthcare services nationwide.