World Hepatitis Day 2026: know the facts and get tested
World Hepatitis Day takes place on 28 July and is an opportunity to highlight the importance of early testing and treatment for viral hepatitis.
Hepatitis affects the liver and, if left untreated, can lead to serious health problems including liver disease and liver cancer. Many people do not realise they have it because hepatitis often causes few or no symptoms in its early stages.
While hepatitis remains a significant global health issue, effective treatments are available and some forms of the disease can be prevented through vaccination. Early diagnosis is important, helping people access treatment sooner and reduce the risk of long-term complications.
"Hepatitis C, one of the most common forms of viral hepatitis in the UK, can now be cured in most cases."
Hepatitis C, one of the most common forms of viral hepatitis in the UK, can now be cured in most cases. The NHS offers a free home testing service, allowing people to check whether they have hepatitis C using a simple finger-prick blood test.
- You can order a free hepatitis C test kit at home through the NHS: Order a hepatitis C home test kit.
- For more information about hepatitis, including symptoms, causes, diagnosis and treatment, visit the NHS website: Find out more about hepatitis.
This World Hepatitis Day, taking a few minutes to learn about the condition or get tested if you are at risk could make a real difference to your health.
