Over 350 million people worldwide live with viral hepatitis, causing 1.1 million deaths annually. However, progress towards eliminating this public health threat by 2030 has been slow. The Global Fund recent commitment to expand support for hepatitis-related services brings hope. 

Through the Global Fund funding cycle, countries can strengthen their hepatitis programs, integrating them with existing healthcare services. This opportunity has already been seized by countries like Vietnam, Cambodia, and Rwanda, showcasing the impact of integrating hepatitis programming with Global Fund support. Key populations, including those living with HIV, can benefit from expanded screening, testing, and treatment for hepatitis B and C, alongside hepatitis B vaccination. Harm reduction services and the triple elimination of mother-to-child transmission of HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B are also supported. 

Increased investment is vital to meet the World Health Organization 2030 elimination targets. Let’s urge all funders to integrate viral hepatitis into their programs for equitable and people-centered healthcare.

Thanks to all involved: PATH; Clinton Healthcare Access Initiative; The Hepatitis Fund; Harm Reduction International; WHO Collaborating Centre for Viral Hepatitis, The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity; The Coalition for Global Hepatitis Elimination, The Task Force for Global Health; Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation.

Hepatitis Can’t Wait!