ESCMID Postgraduate Course: Elimination of Viral Hepatitis

Viral hepatitis remains a global public health problem that represents a constant challenge for ID/CM specialists. In 2016 the first ever WHO global health sector strategy set goals to eliminate viral hepatitis as a public health threat by 2030. With highly effective HCV treatment and highly effective hepatitis B vaccine the goal seems achievable. However, there are several barriers to be overcome from the diagnostic, clinical, institutional as well as the patient sites. The goal of this course is to present the current epidemiological situation, clinical achievements and remaining issues of the five viruses, HBV and HCV in particular, the goals of WHO elimination strategy, the barriers to achieve elimination goals and some solutions to overcome the barriers in different resource settings. Additional benefit of the course is also in discussing the role of ID/CM specialists and their readiness towards the elimination of viral hepatitis.