Millennium Fellowship Project: Hepatitis B – Know It, Prevent It, Beat It

I joined a team of fifteen Fellows in organizing a three-day program under the Hepatitis B Hero’s Initiative. Our goal was to raise awareness, educate the public, and provide free screenings for Hepatitis B. The program, themed "Hepatitis B: Know It, Prevent It, Beat It," focused on empowering communities with knowledge about the disease and promoting early detection as a means of prevention. Hepatitis B remains a significant public health challenge, but it is both preventable and treatable with the right interventions.

We launched the program with an online awareness session designed to introduce the initiative and share valuable information about Hepatitis B, including its transmission, symptoms, prevention strategies, and available treatments. Participants engaged in an interactive session, asking questions and clarifying common misconceptions about the disease. The online platform allowed us to reach a wide audience, emphasizing the importance of proactive health management.

On the second day, we visited Oke Ose Community Grammar School, where we educated students and staff about Hepatitis B prevention and the critical role of vaccination in safeguarding health. The session included health talks, distribution of informational materials such as flyers and pamphlets, and open discussions to address concerns. This day was particularly significant as it empowered young people with the knowledge to protect themselves and their communities.

The final day featured a community outreach event at Oke Ose Community Health Care Center, where we provided free Hepatitis B screenings. Collaborating with healthcare professionals, we offered tests to participants and provided one-on-one consultations for those at risk or who tested positive. Health counseling and referrals for follow-up care were also made available. This outreach effort highlighted the importance of early detection in managing and reducing the impact of Hepatitis B.

Through this initiative, we empowered over 100 individuals with crucial knowledge about Hepatitis B, its prevention, and its treatment options. The free screenings facilitated early diagnosis and medical intervention for many participants, potentially preventing severe complications and improving overall health outcomes. By educating students and engaging the broader community, we strengthened collective efforts toward safeguarding public health.

This project was made possible with the support of Index Lab Limited and Academic Hub Initiative and aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being. It served as a reminder that collaborative actions are essential in addressing public health challenges. Together, we took meaningful steps toward building a healthier and more informed community, striving to reduce the burden of Hepatitis B for a brighter future