World Hepatitis Day 2026: Breaking down barriers to testing, vaccination and treatment
We can reduce the impact of hepatitis on people living in Ireland by identifying people at risk, offering testing, and supporting vaccination and access to care.
World Hepatitis Day
World Hepatitis Day (28 July) raises awareness of the global burden of viral hepatitis. The World Health Organization estimated that almost 300 million people were living with chronic hepatitis B or C in 2024. Chronic hepatitis B and C silently cause liver damage and cancer – despite them being preventable, treatable, and, in the case of hepatitis C, curable.
The theme of the 2026 campaign is “Hepatitis: Let’s Break It Down.” The campaign focuses on breaking down the barriers that continue to stand in the way of eliminating hepatitis B and hepatitis C. It calls for turning proven science into action through stronger political commitment, sustained investment, and efforts to expand equitable access to prevention, testing, treatment, and care.
Testing, vaccination and access to care can prevent serious illness
Healthcare professionals have an important role in identifying people at risk of hepatitis C, offering testing, and supporting timely access to specialist assessment and antiviral treatment. Screening is available in addiction services, prisons, maternity services, migrant health screening services, publicly funded STI clinics and through the HSE home testing service. Continued focus on targeted testing, engagement in care and access to treatment will be essential to reducing hepatitis C as a public health threat in Ireland.
Hepatitis B is vaccine preventable. Healthcare professionals should consider hepatitis B testing for people in risk groups and assess vaccination status and immunity where appropriate. People who are susceptible should be offered hepatitis B vaccination in line with relevant clinical guidance and local service pathways.
New hepatitis data for Ireland
To mark World Hepatitis Day, HPSC is releasing two new infographics and slidesets on the epidemiology of hepatitis B and C in Ireland. These resources will help healthcare professionals understand current trends, affected populations, and determine opportunities for prevention and care.
Hepatitis B and C can cause serious illness; testing, vaccination and treatment can prevent harm and save lives.