“Let’s Break the Barriers” is the theme of World Hepatitis Day 2026. Health experts are urging people to get tested and take preventive measures against hepatitis, commonly known as jaundice. They warn that viral hepatitis remains a major public health challenge both globally and in Albania, describing it as a “silent killer” because most infected people experience no symptoms.

“Hepatitis, or jaundice, is an infection caused by different viruses, including hepatitis A, B, C, D and E. However, hepatitis B and C pose the greatest public health burden. The most vulnerable groups include young children, who are protected through vaccination, people exposed to blood and blood products, individuals with multiple sexual partners, people who inject drugs, and those living with chronic diseases,” said Najada Çomo, Head of the Infectious Diseases Service at the University Hospital Centre “Mother Teresa” (QSUNT).

Albania is working closely with international public health experts to eliminate hepatitis as a public health threat, with prevention efforts beginning at birth.

“Albania has made significant progress in controlling and eliminating hepatitis B and C, particularly hepatitis B. The country has successfully eliminated hepatitis B as a serious disease among children thanks to its national vaccination programme, which begins within the first 24 hours after birth and continues throughout the first year of life,” said Silva Bino, Head of the Department of Infectious Diseases at the Institute of Public Health (ISHP).

“Albania has responded to the World Health Organization’s call to eliminate viral hepatitis as a public health threat. We have very encouraging news: hepatitis B can be prevented, and hepatitis C can be cured. Science has proven this, and the WHO has the evidence and the experience from other countries to achieve this goal,” said Gazmend Bejtja, WHO Representative in Albania.

For the first time, Albania has adopted a National Plan for the Elimination of Viral Hepatitis, aligning with the World Health Organization’s target of eliminating hepatitis B and C as public health threats by 2030. The plan strengthens prevention efforts, expands testing and early diagnosis, and improves access to treatment.