Somalia has issued a nationwide health alert following a sharp rise in hepatitis infections across the country. The Ministry of Health has urged citizens to take precautionary measures, seek testing, and utilize available vaccines to curb the spread of the disease.
According to the advisory, individuals experiencing symptoms such as yellowing of the skin or eyes, fatigue, abdominal pain, or nausea should immediately seek medical attention. The ministry emphasized that early detection and treatment are key to preventing severe complications, including liver failure and death.
Health authorities noted that both urban centers and remote villages are reporting increased hepatitis cases, with rural areas being particularly vulnerable due to weak healthcare infrastructure. The growing number of infections threatens to overwhelm Somalia’s already fragile health system, which struggles with shortages of medical personnel, outdated facilities, and inadequate diagnostic equipment.
The government is mobilizing resources and working closely with local and international partners to scale up prevention and treatment measures. Plans are underway to deploy mobile health units to remote regions to provide basic healthcare services, including screening and vaccination for hepatitis. Efforts are also being made to improve disease surveillance systems to enable timely detection and response to outbreaks.
Public awareness campaigns are expected to play a critical role in controlling the spread of the disease. Community leaders, healthcare workers, and faith-based organizations are being encouraged to educate the public on preventive measures such as proper hygiene, safe food and water consumption, and the importance of vaccination.
Hepatitis refers to a group of viral infections that affect the liver, with the most common types being A, B, and C. Hepatitis A is often transmitted through contaminated food and water, while Hepatitis B and C are primarily spread through contact with infected blood and bodily fluids. If untreated, these infections can lead to chronic liver disease, cirrhosis, or liver cancer.
The health ministry reiterated its commitment to improving access to medical services and protecting communities from future outbreaks. However, it acknowledged that systemic challenges such as limited healthcare infrastructure and resource constraints remain significant barriers.
Authorities are calling for urgent action to prevent the situation from escalating, warning that failure to contain the outbreak could put immense pressure on the nation’s health system. Citizens are urged to remain vigilant, prioritize vaccination, and seek prompt medical care if they experience any symptoms associated with hepatitis.
