Awantipora | : The Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) organized an awareness program on World Hepatitis Day 2025 in Mandoora, in collaboration with Syed Mantaqi Memorial College of Nursing and Medical Technology and SDH Tral.
The initiative was prompted by the region’s recurring hepatitis outbreaks, particularly following the infection of eight children with hepatitis A earlier this year. Principal Dr. Asmat Parveen emphasized the critical need to address viral hepatitis, highlighting the global burden of over 354 million cases and 1.1 million deaths annually. She pointed out that India alone accounts for approximately 40 million hepatitis B and 6–12 million hepatitis C cases, making Mandoora a focal point for intervention. The event, themed “Hepatitis: Let’s Break It Down,” included expert presentations from Dr. Showkat Hussain and Mr. Nazir Ahmad Bhat, alongside interactive lectures by B.Sc Nursing students and faculty. Key topics covered included the various types of hepatitis, their transmission, prevention strategies, and treatment options. The program also featured live demonstrations on the preparation of Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS), WHO-recommended hand hygiene practices, and safe food handling techniques, engaging over 150 local school students and community members. Informative pamphlets in both Urdu and English were distributed to enhance awareness. Coordinated by Ms. Mubashir Bashir and faculty members, the event underscored IUST’s commitment to community health and its proactive approach to addressing significant public health challenges through education and outreach initiatives.
