Journal of Infectious Diseases & Preventive Medicine
Open Access

Emerging Zoonotic Infections: Global Trends and Regional Preparedness

Michael J. Abrams^{* *}Correspondence: Michael J. Abrams, Department of Population Health Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada, Email:

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Description

Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) remains a major global health concern, with over 250 million people chronically infected and at increased risk of liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. While widespread vaccination programs and medical advancements have made significant strides in reducing transmission in many settings, vulnerable and high-risk populations continue to face disproportionate burdens. Community-based interventions, customized to the needs and realities of these groups, are essential tools in both preventing new infections and reducing stigma associated with the disease.

High-risk populations such as People Who Inject Drugs (PWID), sex workers, Men who have Sex with Men (MSM), migrants from HBV-endemic regions and incarcerated individuals often remain underrepresented in national hepatitis B strategies. Traditional healthcare delivery models frequently fail to engage these communities due to social, economic and structural barriers. Mistrust of healthcare institutions, fear of legal repercussions, language barriers and cultural stigma around both HBV and behaviours associated with risk contribute to poor access and follow-up. This is where community-based interventions play a vital role. These strategies leverage the strength of local organizations, peer networks and culturally competent outreach to reach individuals who might otherwise fall through the cracks. Mobile clinics, peer education programs, vaccination drives and linkage-to-care models embedded within trusted community structures have proven effective in reducing HBV transmission and increasing diagnosis and treatment rates.

For example, in several Canadian cities, community based organizations working with newcomers and refugees have implemented mobile HBV screening and vaccination programs that operate in cultural centres, religious institutions and local schools. These initiatives not only increase vaccine uptake but also encourage trust and provide platforms for broader health education. In the United States and parts of Europe, peer-led harm reduction programs have distributed clean needles and provided HBV vaccination alongside HIV prevention services successfully integrating hepatitis B into broader public health efforts targeting PWID. Education is a key component of any community based approach. Misinformation and stigma surrounding hepatitis B are persistent challenges. Many high-risk individuals are unaware of their infection status or confuse HBV with other forms of hepatitis or unrelated conditions. Peer educators, community health workers and bilingual staff can play an instrumental role in addressing these knowledge gaps in a respectful, culturally appropriate manner.

Importantly, community based interventions also provide a flexible, adaptive platform for rapid public health response. During outbreaks or when guidelines evolve as in the case of updated vaccination recommendations community networks can disseminate information quickly and effectively. These interventions can also offer real time understanding into emerging trends or barriers, helping public health authorities tailor responses to specific community dynamics. Technology has further expanded the reach of these initiatives. Mobile apps, SMS campaigns, and online platforms can be used to educate, schedule vaccinations and provide anonymous counselling critical for communities where confidentiality is a concern. In regions with high smartphone penetration, digital health tools can complement face-to-face engagement, helping to sustain communication and follow-up.

Nonetheless, significant challenges remain. Community-based programs often suffer from limited funding, inconsistent policy support and high staff turnover. Despite their proven impact, they are frequently treated as supplementary rather than central to national hepatitis strategies. Furthermore, measuring their long-term impact can be difficult, especially when tracking transient or marginalized populations. There is also a risk of relying too heavily on community actors without giving them adequate training, resources, or institutional backing. Governments and health systems must recognize the value these organizations bring and integrate them into official public health infrastructure. That means providing stable funding, formal recognition and opportunities for capacity-building and collaboration.

Conclusion

Preventing hepatitis B transmission in high-risk groups requires more than clinical interventions it demands trust, accessibility and sustained engagement. Community-based interventions are uniquely positioned to meet these needs by reaching people where they live, work and gather and by addressing the social determinants that often drive vulnerability. In high-income countries, where health systems are strong but often bureaucratically rigid, these grassroots approaches can serve as both a lifeline for individuals and a bridge to broader public health goals. To truly eliminate hepatitis B as a public health threat, national strategies must prioritize community-led efforts not as optional add-ons but as indispensable components of effective, equitable care. With thoughtful investment and genuine partnership, community-based interventions can close the gaps in HBV prevention and care especially for those most at risk and most often left behind.