Action plan for the health sector response to viral hepatitis in the WHO European Region (2017)

Viral hepatitis is a leading cause of mortality globally. This first Action plan for viral hepatitis in the WHO European Region adapts the Global Health Sector Strategy on Viral Hepatitis 2016–2021 to the epidemiological, social and political contexts of the countries of the WHO European Region. The goal of the Action plan is the elimination of viral hepatitis as a public health threat in the WHO European Region by 2030 through the reduction of transmission, morbidity and mortality due to viral hepatitis and its complications, and by ensuring equitable access to comprehensive prevention, recommended testing, care and treatment services for all.Five strategic directions are proposed:

1. information for focused action;
2. interventions for impact;
3. delivering for equity;
4. financing for sustainability;
5. innovation for acceleration. 

The Action plan intends to guide Member States in developing country-specific strategies and plans, aligned with national priorities, policies and legislation, to prevent and control viral hepatitis.