According to a report from the World Health Organization (WHO) released in July 2026, Europe is at risk of missing its target to eliminate viral hepatitis as a public health threat by 2030. The report highlights that while the region has made significant progress in preventing hepatitis B and C, with hepatitis B prevalence now near zero among children under five years old, the uneven implementation of testing, treatment, and prevention measures across countries is a major obstacle.
The WHO report notes that an estimated 14 million people in the European region are living with chronic hepatitis B or C, with many unaware of their infection. Key challenges include insufficient access to affordable testing and treatment, particularly in Eastern Europe and Central Asia, as well as gaps in harm reduction services for people who inject drugs.
Progress has been made in reducing new infections through universal hepatitis B vaccination of infants, which has achieved 95% coverage in the region. However, the report emphasizes that without accelerated action, especially in scaling up diagnosis and treatment, the 2030 elimination goals will not be met.
The WHO calls for increased political commitment, funding, and targeted interventions to reach marginalized populations. The report also stresses the need for simplified treatment protocols and the removal of patent barriers to ensure affordable access to direct-acting antivirals for hepatitis C.
