Health experts have warned that hepatitis B continues to be a silent epidemic in Kenya, according to a report by standardmedia.co.ke. The condition often goes undetected because many carriers do not experience symptoms, the outlet reported on Tuesday.
The warning highlights that individuals can unknowingly carry the virus for years without realizing it. Standardmedia.co.ke reports that this lack of awareness contributes to the spread of the disease, as carriers may transmit it to others without knowing their own status.
Hepatitis B is a viral infection that attacks the liver and can cause chronic illness, leading to serious health complications such as cirrhosis or liver cancer if left untreated. The virus is typically spread through contact with infected blood or bodily fluids, including from mother to child during birth, or through unprotected sex and shared needles.
Standardmedia.co.ke notes that the silent nature of the epidemic means many Kenyans are living with the virus without access to testing or treatment. Health experts are urging increased public awareness and routine screening to identify carriers early and prevent further transmission.
Looking ahead, experts are calling for expanded vaccination programs and better access to antiviral treatments to curb the spread of hepatitis B in Kenya.
