May is Hepatitis Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about the impact of viral hepatitis in the United States. Viral hepatitis continues to be a major public health threat, contributing to cirrhosis, liver cancer, transplants, and premature death for millions of Americans.
We have the tools to prevent the spread of hepatitis: highly-effective vaccines are available for both Hepatitis A (HAV) and B (HBV), with curative treatment available for Hepatitis C (HCV). Indeed, HAV rates are declining and HBV and HCV rates were relatively stable in 2023. In addition, the recently FDA-approved point-of-care (POC) RNA test for HCV could support more accessible and rapid diagnosis and linkage to care.
However, progress against HBV may be in jeopardy. In December 2025, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) voted to end the universal HBV birth dose recommendation instated in 1991. The National Association of County and City Health Officials (NACCHO) and others, such as the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), have disavowed this decision, noting that this reversal will result in an increase in HBV infections. While this reversal is still somewhat new, modeling studies are already projecting significant public health effects stemming from this decision, both in terms of rising costs and new infections.
Local health departments (LHDs) are pivotal in the prevention and elimination of viral hepatitis, conducting surveillance, provider education, and community engagement, and providing services such as vaccination, testing, and treatment. But this work remains significantly underfunded, and closing the gaps in prevention, diagnosis, and treatment will require sustained investment in local public health.
The viral hepatitis epidemic intersects with HIV, STIs, and substance use disorders. Therefore, elimination will require a syndemic approach. In practice, this involves intentionally coordinating programs and services, meeting people where they are, and leveraging data to inform decision-making.
This Hepatitis Awareness Month, we have a powerful opportunity to shine a light on viral hepatitis, mobilize action across sectors, and reaffirm our commitment to prevention, testing, and treatment. With sustained investment and cross-sector collaboration, eliminating viral hepatitis is within reach.
