West Pokot launches hepatitis B vaccination drive for health workers

Every year, at least tens of people test positive for hepatitis B in West Pokot County.

Last year, there were 28 cases of hepatitis B, with four reported in health workers. Three people including one health worker died from the viral disease that is associated with liver cirrhosis (scarred liver), due to lack of medical care.

In the last four years, 122 cases of hepatitis B have been reported in the county. To turn the tide, the county has launched a vaccination drive targeting more than 4,000 health workers and county workers. Immunisation will be offered in 13 health facilities.

Speaking during the launch at the Kapenguria County Referral Hospital, Governor John Lonyangapuo said that many patients die due to lack of medical care, and those who seek care have to go to the Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret.

NEED FOR AWARENESS

According to County Executive Committee Member for Health Geoffrey Lipale, many residents lack awareness about the disease, posing a challenge in its management.

“People don’t know its causes and treatment options. We call on residents to manage the environment by disposing faeces in toilets, living in well-ventilated rooms and boiling drinking water,” he said, and added that the county was mapping affected areas in Chepareria, Kacheliba, Alale, Miskwony and Kodich, ahead of the drive.

“The most affected areas are North Pokot, Central Pokot and West Pokot Sub-counties. We want to prevent the disease because many times it has no cure,” he said, adding that areas affected by the disease are remote, making access difficult for health personnel.

“Residents are also unable to reach hospitals due to lack of transport,” he said.

Mr Lipale said some people don’t know they when they have been infected. "Often, we only get to learn someone is suffering from hepatitis B when it is too late," he said.

In developing countries, infection commonly occurs at the time of birth, during infancy, or in early childhood.

Childhood vaccination in three doses is recommended, and those who miss the doses should get catch-up vaccination.

There are about 350 million carriers of Hepatitis B virus worldwide and the World Health Organisation has categorised Kenya as an endemic area with a prevalence rate of 11 per cent.