Welcome to Hep Voice!

As we enter 2026, this edition of Hep Voice captures both the urgency and the opportunities shaping global hepatitis elimination.

Sobering new data on hepatitis C (p.4) reveals how far we still have to go, while debates in the US reflect how misinformation can threaten long-standing progress in hepatitis B vaccination (p.20). Yet, recent updates from Gavi (p.19) also signal important shifts in vaccine access, while the Maldives’ historic achievement as the first country to reach triple mother-to-child transmission elimination (p.4) shows what is possible with strong political will and integrated care.

From peer-led hepatitis C prevention in Ukraine, to Sediba’s integrated care in South Africa (p.22), FUNHEPA’s national movement for liver health in Honduras (p.32), to WHA members’ action during World Hepatitis Testing Week 2025 (p.8), grassroots groups are still reaching communities with testing, awareness, and stories that challenge stigma and drive people toward care.

With the World Hepatitis Summit 2026 approaching, and our NOhep Medical Visionaries programme expanding, WHA is stepping into the new year with determination and clarity of purpose. We know that the tools and knowledge are there for all of us. Now is the time to turn ambition into impact and ensure every community feels the benefits of them.

Happy New Year!