"Hepatitis A In India: A Review Of Current Knowledge And Future Perspectives"

Abstract

Hepatitis A, caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV), remains a significant public health concern in India, a country with diverse socio-economic and environmental conditions that affect disease transmission. This review aims to synthesize current knowledge on the epidemiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, management, and prevention of hepatitis A in India. Hepatitis A is predominantly transmitted via the fecal-oral route, with outbreaks often linked to contaminated food and water sources. The disease manifests primarily in children and young adults, with symptoms ranging from mild, self-limiting illness to severe liver dysfunction in rare cases. While the overall incidence has declined due to improvements in sanitation and the introduction of vaccination programs, hepatitis A still poses a risk, particularly in underserved regions.

Despite the availability of an effective vaccine, challenges such as limited access, public awareness, and varying immunization coverage hinder comprehensive control efforts. This review also explores future perspectives, emphasizing the need for enhanced surveillance, targeted vaccination strategies, and public health education to mitigate the impact of hepatitis A. Addressing these challenges requires a concerted effort from government agencies, healthcare providers, and communities to ensure equitable health outcomes across India. Through a multi-faceted approach, India can progress towards reducing the burden of hepatitis A and safeguarding public health.