A new nationwide survey published in June 2025 has revealed a remarkable reduction in hepatitis C prevalence across Thailand—a development hailed by public health leaders as evidence that the country’s decades-long prevention and screening efforts are working. The research, conducted in four regions of Thailand among over 6,000 participants, found that the current rate of hepatitis C infection is just 0.56%, down from 2.15% in 2004 and 0.94% in 2014. This progress comes even as the World Health Organization warns globally that viral hepatitis deaths are rising, with 1.3 million fatalities each year according to its 2024 Global Hepatitis Report (healio.com), making Thailand’s performance uniquely encouraging (nature.com).
Hepatitis C, often called the “silent” infection, represents a global health threat because many infected people do not show symptoms until significant liver damage has occurred. For this reason, public health authorities—including Thailand’s National Health Security Office (NHSO)—have repeatedly emphasized the need for widespread screening, especially among high-risk groups and those born before 1992, the year Thailand began universal HBV vaccination for newborns. The Ministry of Public Health has implemented a dual “test-and-treat” policy that offers rapid diagnostic testing, advanced molecular confirmation, and, for those who test positive, access to direct-acting antiviral medications capable of curing hepatitis C in up to 95% of cases (dndi.org).
Why does this matter for Thailand? Chronic hepatitis C can lead to liver cirrhosis, cancer, and premature death. The burden has historically fallen heaviest on high-risk populations such as people who inject drugs (PWID), those with HIV, dialysis patients, and incarcerated people. Until the last decade, up to 92.5% of PWID and double-digit percentages of certain patient groups tested positive for hepatitis C in Thailand (nature.com). These stakes prompted authorities to expand screening, mandate blood testing in hospitals, and provide more affordable treatments through the NHSO.
The 2024 study’s key findings showcase the magnitude of Thailand’s achievements. Only 0.18% of participants tested positive for hepatitis C antibodies, with an even lower proportion among those born after 1992—a clear sign that new infections are dramatically less frequent among younger generations. Statistical models, normalized to national demographics, estimate that about 364,000 Thais now carry hepatitis C antibodies, while fewer than 232,000 have active viral RNA. Contrast this with nearly 1.4 million carriers in 2004, and the impact of persistent screening, public education, and safe medical practices becomes unmistakable.
According to the lead virology research team at Chulalongkorn University, the latest survey confirms that, “effective screening and preventive measure policies have led to a marked decline in hepatitis C prevalence in Thailand’s general population.” The principal investigator highlighted that, although children and young adults now have extraordinarily low infection rates, those aged 32 and above—especially outside major cities and in the northern provinces—should still undergo screening. “Elimination is within reach, but targeted interventions remain essential for people born before 1992 and established high-risk groups,” noted the research team (nature.com).
Expert opinions about hepatitis C’s trajectory in Thailand reflect cautious optimism. Epidemiology specialists at the Department of Disease Control stress that, while population-wide prevalence is declining, “continued vigilance is necessary,” especially for groups historically left out of mass screenings or with limited healthcare access. International health authorities also see Thailand as a model: The World Health Organization’s Southeast Asia office has praised Thailand for its “integrated approach to viral hepatitis elimination,” citing the country’s use of advanced diagnostics, blood safety protocols, and public engagement. In June, the Thai government’s official spokesperson noted that the nation’s progress “shows that hepatitis C elimination is achievable when government, academia, and communities work together.”
In practical terms, the NHSO now covers rapid diagnostic testing and pan-genotypic antiviral treatment for all identified chronic hepatitis C patients—not just for high-risk groups—reflecting a shift towards universal coverage. By introducing sofosbuvir/velpatasvir (SOF/VEL) therapies in 2021 and subsidizing generic drugs, Thailand has addressed one of the major barriers to elimination: cost. Most patients, public or private, can complete a course of oral tablets in just 12 weeks, with cure rates of 95–100% and minimal side effects. The NHSO continues to expand outreach in rural provinces and urban communities to ensure no one is left behind.
The Thai public’s engagement has also played a crucial role. Awareness campaigns during events such as World Hepatitis Day (July 28) have educated millions about testing and prevention—important since hepatitis C can spread through even microscopic amounts of infected blood via unsafe injections, poorly sterilized medical equipment, or shared razors. Cultural sensitivity and respect for privacy are essential given the stigma still occasionally associated with liver disease. Community health volunteers and village health workers are key messengers, distributing information, arranging screenings, and assisting with follow-up care, particularly for older adults and those in remote locations.
Thailand’s hepatitis C story is also part of a regional and global challenge. Neighboring countries face varying levels of success: Vietnam, Cambodia, and Myanmar still report higher prevalence rates and struggle with lower screening coverage and less access to modern therapy (thelancet.com). Meanwhile, Egypt—where nationwide campaigns slashed prevalence from 10% to 0.38% in a decade—inspires many of these global elimination efforts. Thailand’s model, combining medical innovation and public health system strengthening, is now instructive both regionally and internationally.
Looking ahead, the challenges for Thailand include ensuring that aging cohorts—those born before 1992—do not slip through the cracks, since their risk remains highest due to potential past exposures. Health leaders urge: If you are over 32, have ever received a blood transfusion, undergone dialysis, injected drugs (even once), or been incarcerated, you should seek a hepatitis C test. The NHSO and Ministry of Public Health recommend screening anyone with abnormal liver function, as well as all pregnant women and people living with HIV. New developments, like the introduction of affordable self-testing kits in Southeast Asia (dndi.org), are also poised to accelerate detection.
Policy-wise, researchers stress the importance of continued investment in surveillance and in reaching marginalized populations. Thailand’s experience demonstrates that progress is possible with persistent government leadership, academic research, and grassroots community engagement, but warn that elimination is not guaranteed if attention wanes.
For Thai readers, the message is clear: hepatitis C is now curable, and early detection ensures a future free from the disease’s complications. “The first step starts with awareness,” said an epidemiologist at the Department of Disease Control. “Get tested—especially if you’re over 32 or at risk. Treatment is simple, fast, and highly effective. You can be cured in as little as three months.”
Practical recommendations for Thai residents:
- If you were born before 1992, or have ever had a risk factor (such as blood transfusion or injection drug use), make an appointment for a hepatitis C screening at your local public health clinic.
- Encourage friends and family—especially elders or those with underlying health conditions—to get tested during annual health checks.
- Avoid sharing needles, razors, or toothbrushes, and ensure any tattooing or medical procedures are performed by licensed professionals.
- If you test positive, speak to clinic staff about direct-acting antiviral treatments available under the NHSO.
- Stay informed about hepatitis C through trusted sources, such as the Ministry of Public Health and village health volunteers.
- Support national elimination efforts by enabling open dialogue about liver health and advocating for continued funding and research.
As Thailand moves toward becoming one of the first countries in Asia to eliminate hepatitis C as a public health threat, its experience offers hope and a blueprint for the region—proof that with vigilance, technology, and community action, even the “silent infection” can one day be silenced.
Sources:
- A comparative national survey on the gradual decline of hepatitis C virus prevalence in Thailand, 2004, 2014, and 2024
- World Hepatitis Day 2025: elimination at a critical juncture
- 2025 R&D programmes in review: Hepatitis C | DNDi
- Viral hepatitis elimination requires equitable public health approach
- Hepatitis C in Thailand: Prevalence and Trends
- WHO: Global Hepatitis Report 2024
- It’s called the ‘silent’ infection. When was the last time you were tested? (WLTX)