Nasirabad Launches 12-Day Free Hepatitis C Screening and Awareness Campaign

Health authorities deploy 52 mobile teams to screen 190,000 people under the Prime Minister's Hepatitis C detection and treatment programme

Staff Report

DERA MURAD JAMALI: Health authorities in Nasirabad on Monday launched an awareness rally to mark the beginning of the Prime Minister's Hepatitis C Detection and Treatment Programme, aimed at expanding free screening and treatment services across the district.

The rally, led by Assistant Commissioner Chattar Bashir Ahmed and District Health Officer Dr. Ayaz Jamali, started from the District Health Office and concluded at the Civil Hospital, where free Hepatitis C screening was also conducted.

Participants carried banners and placards highlighting the importance of early diagnosis, timely treatment, and public awareness about Hepatitis C. The campaign is being implemented with the support of Balochistan Irrigation Minister Mir Muhammad Sadiq Umrani under the vision of Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfaraz Bugti.

Speaking to reporters, Dr. Jamali said the 12-day campaign aims to screen around 190,000 people across Nasirabad district for Hepatitis C. He said 52 mobile teams have been deployed to conduct door-to-door screening in both urban neighbourhoods and rural communities to ensure maximum public coverage.

Dr. Jamali added that individuals who test positive during the initial screening will receive free PCR testing, treatment, and medicines in accordance with the government's healthcare policy. Assistant Commissioner Bashir Ahmed said the district administration is working closely with the health department to improve access to essential healthcare services and ensure the successful implementation of the campaign. A large number of health officials, political and religious leaders, and local residents participated in the awareness rally.