Liver alert: The hepatitis epidemic
Info nuggets
Chandigarh, Updated At : 07:44 PM Feb 27, 2026 IST
Advertisement
Hepatitis refers to inflammation of the liver, most commonly caused by viral infections, though alcohol abuse, toxins, drugs and autoimmune disorders can also be responsible. Viral hepatitis is a major global public health challenge, leading to cirrhosis, liver failure and hepatocellular carcinoma.
Five main viruses cause viral hepatitis:
1. Hepatitis A (HAV) – spreads through the faeco-oral route, usually via contaminated food and water. It causes acute, self-limiting illness and is closely linked to poor sanitation. A vaccine is available.
2. Hepatitis B (HBV) – transmitted through blood and body fluids, unsafe injections, transfusions, and from mother to child. It can become chronic, significantly increasing the risk of liver cancer. An effective vaccine exists and is part of India’s Universal Immunisation Programme.
3. Hepatitis C (HCV) – spreads mainly through infected blood and unsafe medical practices. It frequently becomes chronic, but direct-acting antiviral drugs can cure most cases.
4. Hepatitis D (HDV) – occurs only in individuals infected with HBV, making HBV vaccination indirectly protective against HDV.
5. Hepatitis E (HEV) – primarily water-borne and common in developing countries; it is usually acute but can be severe in pregnant women, with high mortality.
India carries a significant burden of viral hepatitis, particularly B, C and E. National efforts focus on safe drinking water, vaccination, blood safety and early diagnosis.
For UPSC, hepatitis is relevant under communicable diseases, public health policy, sanitation, immunisation programmes and Sustainable Development Goals (SDG-3), as well as disease elimination strategies.
Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement
Copyright © The Tribune Trust, 2024
Designed and developed by : 
