..Urges Nationwide Testing

Following a growing number of hepatitis B–related deaths across Nigeria, the Chief Executive Officer of Inocul8, Dr. Emmanuel Egbroko, has raised alarm over what he described as a “silent but deadly” public health crisis, warning that millions of Nigerians may be carriers without knowing.

Speaking on the situation, Dr. Egbroko stressed that hepatitis B continues to spread largely undetected because many infected individuals do not show early symptoms. He noted that this has contributed significantly to late diagnoses, when the disease has already caused serious liver damage.

“Many Nigerians are living with hepatitis B unknowingly. It is a silent infection, and by the time symptoms appear, the liver may already be severely affected,” he said, urging citizens to make testing a priority.
Hepatitis B is a viral infection that affects the liver and can lead to life-threatening conditions such as liver failure and cancer if left untreated. Health experts estimate that millions of Nigerians are currently infected, with a significant percentage unaware of their status.

Dr. Egbroko explained that a simple blood test is enough to detect the virus, adding that early diagnosis can help infected individuals manage their condition and live healthy lives. He also emphasised that those who test negative should immediately consider vaccination to prevent infection.

The virus is commonly transmitted through contact with infected blood and body fluids, including unprotected sexual activity, sharing of sharp objects like razors and needles, and from mother to child during childbirth.

Despite the availability of a safe and effective vaccine, many Nigerians—particularly adults—remain unvaccinated. According to Dr. Egbroko, this gap is largely due to low awareness and limited access to vaccination services in some areas.

He further highlighted the economic burden of the disease, noting that treatment costs for hepatitis B, especially in advanced stages, can be overwhelming for families. “Prevention is far more affordable than treatment. The financial impact on households and the nation is enormous,” he said.

Through its outreach programmes, Inocul8 has been working to expand access to hepatitis B screening and vaccination, targeting both individuals and organisations. The initiative aims to reduce infection rates by encouraging early testing and preventive care.

As concerns continue to mount, health stakeholders are calling for increased public awareness and stronger government intervention to curb the spread of the disease.

Dr. Egbroko reiterated that immediate action is critical. “Getting tested and vaccinated is not just a personal decision—it is a step towards protecting families, communities, and the future of our nation,” he said.