WHO Recognizes the Need for Active Measures in the Fight Against Hepatitis D in Response to an Open Letter from Civil Society Organizations

In July 2024, on World Hepatitis Day, civil society representatives from Eastern Europe and Central Asia (EECA), India, and Thailand, along with major international organizations such as Treatment Action Group (TAG) and ITPC Global, sent an open letter to the World Health Organization (WHO) urging the creation of a working group on hepatitis D (HDV) and the development of specific guidelines for diagnosis and treatment.

The letter was initiated by ITPC EECA and ECAT and was signed by a total of 23 organizations.

The letter emphasized that HDV and hepatitis B virus (HBV) co-infection is one of the most severe forms of chronic hepatitis, as confirmed by WHO’s 2024 report. HDV affects approximately 5% of people with chronic HBV infection, and co-infection can be responsible for up to 20% of liver disease cases among these patients. Civil society representatives expressed concerns about the lack of epidemiological data, inadequate access to HDV diagnostics and treatment, and low awareness among healthcare professionals.

WHO’s Response

The response to the letter was provided by Dr. Hans Kluge, Director of WHO’s Regional Office for Europe, who acknowledged the importance of the issue raised in the letter. In its response, WHO emphasized that the organization recognizes the need to improve HDV diagnosis, treatment, and epidemiological monitoring. A WHO representative noted the significant progress in combating HBV in Europe through vaccination programs, which help prevent new cases of HDV. However, many unresolved issues remain regarding the treatment of co-infections such as HDV.

According to WHO, an important step is the implementation of HDV testing for HBV patients to ensure timely diagnosis and subsequent treatment. Additionally, WHO is working with member states and partners to gather scientific data on new treatment approaches. The development of guidelines and a global research program is under the jurisdiction of WHO’s headquarters, which collaborates closely with the European office.

WHO reaffirmed its commitment to addressing healthcare gaps related to HDV, with the goal of eliminating the disease alongside hepatitis B and C.

Unfortunately, WHO’s response did not provide information regarding the creation of a working group that would include all stakeholders. Therefore, we intend to continue discussions with WHO representatives at the ECAT meeting in December.