The prevalence of Hepatitis B and C (HBV and HCV) are extremely high in the region. This places a significant health burden for the country as a whole, so there is a real need for a screening programme.
Following detailed discussions, the trustees agreed to donate state of the art equipment to initiate a programme that offered screening and treatment. Our charity is supporting a local project initiated by a UK doctor to screen Hepatitis B and C in Somaliland.
To effectively monitor the programme’s progress, a group of high risk patients has been selected. The projected results should improve their health and create a positive impression for the future doctors, nurses and allied healthcare professionals in the country. These young professionals should be good ambassadors for future hepatitis screening and treatment programmes, as there is still some stigma associated with the disease.
This Cepheid Gene-expert IV machine and accessories, costs $26,000. It sets a new standard in workflow flexibility, 24/7 testing accuracy, and user-friendly design.
The programme provides two options, depending on the result of the test:
- Screening Service: If negative, they will be offered vaccination against HBV.
- Treatment and Follow Up Service: If positive, they will be offered further investigations, treatment and/or follow up appointments.