NATIONAL VIRAL HEPATITIS CONTROL PROGRAMME (NVHCP)
The National Viral Hepatitis Control Programme was launched in 2018 with an aim to combat hepatitis and achieve country wide elimination of Hepatitis C by 2030, achieve significant reduction in the morbidity and mortality associated with Hepatitis B and C among the infected population and reduce the risk, morbidity and mortality due to Hepatitis A and E.
Under NVHCP, 42 treatment centres have been established across the state where screening, diagnosis and treatment of Hepatitis B and C are done. Among these 42 Treatment centres, 35 Treatment centres are functioning in Medical College Hospitals and the rest in District Head Quarters Hospital. To assist the patients within the treatment centre, to counsel about the importance of adherence to treatment and for regular follow up of the patients, Peer supporters are being engaged in these treatment centres under NVHCP.
The main components of NVHCP include
1. Screening of all antenatal mothers for Hepatitis B:
All the registered antenatal mothers who are registered are screened for Hepatitis B using HbsAg Rapid card tests. If found to be positive, they are referred to the higher facilities ( SDH/DH/MCH) for further management and follow up.
2. Administration of HBIG to newborn delivered to the Hepatitis B positive mothers:
All the newborns delivered to the Hepatitis B positive (HbsAg screened positive) mothers are administered Hepatitis B Immunoglobulin (HBIG) along with the birth dose of Hepatitis B vaccine to prevent mother to child transmission of Hepatitis B infecton.
3. Screening, Diagnosis and treatment of High risk groups and general population for Hepatitis B and C :
Screening of High Risk Groups and General population for Hepatitis B and C are done using rapid card tests in all health facilities. Those who are screened positive are referred to treatment centres for viral load estimation and further evaluation. Treatment for Hepatitis B and C is started, if the patients are found to be eligible for the same.
4. Immunisation against Hepatitis B:
Hepatitis B is vaccine preventable disease. 3 doses of Hepatitis B vaccine has to be administered at 0,1 and 6 months. Under NVHCP, Hepatitis B vaccine is being administered to Health Care Workers.
5. Awareness creation
Awareness creation about safe injection practices and other preventive measures
