Kerala has witnessed a major rise in Hepatitis A cases this year. As of October 29, 2024, the state has reported 6,123 confirmed cases and 61 deaths, a five-fold increase compared to 2023, when only 1,073 cases and seven deaths were recorded. This sharp surge in infections has raised major concerns among health authorities.

The outbreaks have been most severe in the districts of Malappuram, Kozhikode, Kannur, and Ernakulam. Malappuram and Kozhikode together account for more than half of the total reported cases, with over 800 cases in Kannur alone. These districts are at the centre of the ongoing crisis, prompting increased attention from health officials.

Health authorities have stressed the need for heightened vigilance and preventive measures. This includes better water safety protocols and increased public awareness about personal hygiene, particularly handwashing before meals and after using the toilet. Experts have also called for a detailed study into the rising number of fatalities linked to Hepatitis A. While the virus is generally not life-threatening, this year's outbreaks have been particularly severe. Individuals with pre-existing conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and fatty liver have been more vulnerable, prompting concerns over the unusual number of deaths.

What is Hepatitis A?

Hepatitis A is a viral infection that causes inflammation of the liver. Unlike Hepatitis B or C, it does not lead to chronic liver disease but can cause severe symptoms and, in rare cases, acute liver failure. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 7,100 people died from Hepatitis A globally in 2016, underlining the disease's potential severity.

How Hepatitis A Spreads

The hepatitis A virus (HAV) primarily spreads through the faecal-oral route. It can be contracted by ingesting contaminated food or water that has been tainted by the faeces of an infected person. Poor sanitation, inadequate water treatment, and poor hygiene are the main risk factors. In households, the virus can also spread if an infected individual handles food without washing their hands.

Symptoms and Severity of Hepatitis A

Symptoms typically appear 14–28 days after exposure and may include fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, abdominal pain, diarrhoea, jaundice, and dark urine. While adults are more likely to show symptoms, children under six years old often experience milder symptoms, with only 10% developing jaundice. Some individuals may experience a relapse, but recovery is generally expected.

Who is at Risk?

People who are unvaccinated or have not been previously infected are most at risk. Hepatitis A is common in regions with inadequate sanitation and unsafe water. Other risk factors include close contact with infected individuals, engaging in sexual activities with someone infected, and travelling to areas with high infection rates without vaccination.

Prevention and Control of Hepatitis A

Preventing the spread of Hepatitis A involves improving sanitation, food safety, and vaccination. Ensuring access to safe drinking water, proper sewage treatment, and promoting good hygiene practices are crucial. Vaccination is the most effective prevention method, and several inactivated vaccines are available globally.