China Battles Hepatitis B: 75 Million Infected

China is actively working towards eradicating viral hepatitis as a public health concern by the year 2030. This initiative involves assessing current control strategies for Hepatitis B, a disease affecting approximately 75 million individuals in the country, which represents a third of all global cases. Many infected individuals are unaware of their condition.

Significant progress has been made, particularly with universal infant vaccination. Coverage rates for the three-dose series have reached 99.6%, leading to a dramatic decrease in prevalence among children under five. However, the broader population aged 1 to 69 still shows a prevalence of 5.86%.

To address the ongoing challenge, a new action plan was jointly issued in September 2025. This plan aims to maintain high childhood vaccination rates and expand immunization coverage to adults. Public health experts emphasize the critical importance of timely infant vaccination and encourage adults to be aware of their immune status.

Physicians are also calling for reduced stigma, clarifying that Hepatitis B is not spread through casual contact. Grassroots health centers are vital for education, screening, and follow-up care to support the national hepatitis control goals.