One important way to raise awareness about viral hepatitis among persons who are at risk, healthcare providers, and the general public is through awareness months and days. Three annual viral hepatitis-focused observances provide opportunities to join with allies and coordinate across organizations, communities, and the nation to educate communities about the benefits of viral hepatitis prevention, testing, care, and treatment.
More widespread understanding of viral hepatitis is essential if we are to prevent new infections and poor health outcomes among those living with viral hepatitis, including hepatitis-related liver cancer and deaths, and achieve the goals of the Viral Hepatitis National Strategic Plan: A Roadmap to Elimination 2021-2025.
Organizations as well as individuals can use these annual observances to help spread the word about viral hepatitis to their networks, helping more people get tested and linked to treatment. During viral hepatitis observances, you can:
- Share important health messages to motivate viral hepatitis testing, vaccination, care, and treatment
- Promote informational resources such as those available from the CDC
- Organize or join events to raise awareness and create change in your community
- Enlist and engage new partners in responding to viral hepatitis
Many different kinds of organizations have joined in the fight against viral hepatitis including, community medical and behavioral healthcare providers and healthcare systems, state, local and tribal health departments, advocacy groups and coalitions, professional organizations, academic institutions, social service organizations serving populations which are disproportionately impacted by viral hepatitis and others. Eliminating viral hepatitis as a public health threat will require active involvement by a broad mix of groups and individuals. Join us and get involved!
Hepatitis Awareness Month
Observed during May each year, Hepatitis Awareness Month raises awareness of the importance of vaccination for hepatitis A and B, testing for hepatitis B and C, the availability of effective care and curative treatment.
Hepatitis Testing Day
Observed May 19 each year, Hepatitis Testing Day is a day for people at risk for viral hepatitis to be tested, and for health care providers to educate patients about chronic viral hepatitis and testing.
World Hepatitis Day
Observed July 28 each year, the annual observance focuses attention on the huge impact of viral hepatitis infection globally – with nearly 330 million people worldwide living with either chronic hepatitis B or C.
Community Action
A page featuring examples of effective strategies, and links to resources to support community engagement.