The Global Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Hepatitis B Prevention and Treatment Services

Globally, nearly 300 million people are living with chronic hepatitis B infection and only 10 percent of those are diagnosed. In 2016, the World Health Assembly adopted the first ever global strategy to eliminate viral hepatitis by 2030. However, in many countries action towards the elimination targets has been slow and the COVID-19 pandemic poses a further challenge to the gains made to date.

Panelists discuss the short and possible long-term impacts of the global pandemic on hepatitis B initiatives, including disruptions to prevention, diagnosis, and treatment services, that potentially threaten global hepatitis B elimination goals. Speakers also share local experiences and recommendations on strategies to mitigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

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