Fighting Viral Hepatitis in India: Prevention, Risks, and the Path to Better Health

By Dr. Naveen Ganjoo, Senior Consultant – Hepatology & Integrated Liver Care, Aster RV Hospital

Understanding Hepatitis

Viral hepatitis is a liver infection caused by different viruses (A, B, C, D, E). In India, it is a significant public health issue. As per the World Health Organization reports, Hepatitis B impacts nearly 4 crore people in India. The prevalence of hepatitis C is also high, with rates ranging from 60 lakhs to 1.2 crores.

Hepatitis B and C can spread through infected body fluids, commonly affecting people who have unprotected sex with infected partners, share needles or syringes, or are infants born to infected mothers. Activities like getting tattoos or body piercings with contaminated equipment pose additional risks. Receiving unscreened blood transfusions or organ transplants with inadequate screening protocols also increases the risk of transmission. Additionally, healthcare workers exposed to infected blood are at risk of contracting hepatitis B and C.

Symptoms and complications

Symptoms of hepatitis B and C may include fatigue, jaundice, dark urine, abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. Chronic infection can lead to serious long-term health issues, such as cirrhosis and liver cancer. While there is currently no complete cure for hepatitis B and C, available treatments can control the virus and reduce the risk of complications. Therefore, early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are essential to manage the infection effectively and prevent progression to severe liver disease. 

Prevention

The Indian government initiated the National Viral Hepatitis Control Program (NVHCP) in 2018 to combat viral hepatitis. It works with other national programsto promote safe blood and blood products, preventive practices for those at imminent risk, and safe injections.

·       Vaccinationis the most critical tool in preventing Hepatitis B infection. The universal HBV dose at birth has been included in the national immunization schedule but needs wider implementation.

·       Although there is no vaccine for hepatitis C, screening individuals at risk can help identify infections early and provide timely treatment.

·       Use sterile needles, practice safe sex, and avoid sharing personal items like razors and toothbrushes.

·       Safe blood banking, dialysis, injections, and biomedical waste disposal are also essential.

·       Pregnant women should be screened and treated accordingly to reduce the risk of transmission to the unborn child. 

To sum it up, we need to provide comprehensive care and preventive services to combat hepatitis. Offering vaccination, screening, and advanced treatment options are some of them to ensure the best outcomes for our patients. Expert teams are needed to prioritizes regular screening for high-risk individuals and prompt, advanced treatment for those infected. It is important to maintain a safe and hygienic environment to prevent the spread of hepatitis, using sterile needles and equipment for all medical procedures and following strict protocols for safely disposing of biohazardous waste. Blood and organ donations are screened for hepatitis B to prevent transmission through transfusions or transplants. Healthcare professionals need to adhere to the highest standards of hygiene and infection control, and all individuals are to be vaccinated against hepatitis B, further reducing the risk of transmission. By maintaining these practices, we significantly reduce the risk of hepatitis transmission within the hospitals, ensuring a safe and secure environment for all patients. Together, we can make a significant impact in reducing the prevalence of viral hepatitis in India.

Corporate Comm India (CCI Newswire)