Multiple reports tied to World Hepatitis Day highlight that viral hepatitis can persist for long periods with few or no symptoms, meaning many people in South Africa may live with the condition without realising it. The coverage explains that early detection and diagnosis are important because untreated hepatitis can lead to serious liver damage over time. The articles emphasize that awareness of hepatitis—its risk factors, possible silent progression, and the value of getting tested—can help people identify infection earlier and seek appropriate care. While the sources focus on the potential scale of undiagnosed cases, they also underline that screening and timely treatment improve outcomes. The information presented is framed around public health messaging for hepatitis prevention and awareness, encouraging people to consider testing, particularly if they have risk factors associated with viral transmission. Overall, the reporting presents hepatitis as a condition that may not be immediately obvious to those affected and stresses the role of detection in reducing long-term complications.