Stay Safe from Hepatitis B and C: A Comprehensive Preventive Guide

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.

Mode of Transmission

• Both Hepatitis B and C can spread through infected body fluids.
• They commonly affect people who have unprotected sex with infected partners or who share needles or syringes or infants born to infected mothers.
• Activities such as getting tattoos or body piercings with contaminated equipment can also pose a risk.
• Receiving unscreened blood transfusions or organ transplants with inadequate screening protocols can increase the risk of hepatitis B and C transmission.
• It can also infect healthcare workers exposed to infected blood

Symptoms and complications

• Symptoms may include fatigue, jaundice, dark urine, abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting.
• Chronic infection can lead to serious long-term health issues, including cirrhosis and liver cancer.
• Currently, there is no complete cure for hepatitis B and C. However, 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 programs to promote safe blood and blood products, preventive practices for those at imminent risk, and safe injections.

• Vaccination is 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.

Conclusion

At Aster RV Hospital, we are committed to providing comprehensive care and preventive services to help combat hepatitis.

• Our expert team offers vaccination, screening, and advanced treatment options to ensure the best outcomes for our patients.
• We also offer regular screening for high-risk individuals and prompt, advanced treatment options for those infected.
• We prioritize creating a safe and hygienic environment to prevent the spread of hepatitis among patients. We ensure the use of sterile needles and equipment for all medical procedures and implement strict protocols for safely disposing of biohazardous waste.
• We ensure that blood and organ donations are screened for hepatitis B to prevent transmission through transfusions or transplants.
• Our healthcare professionals are trained to follow the highest standards of hygiene and infection control.
• Additionally, all healthcare individuals at Aster RV Hospital are vaccinated against hepatitis B, further reducing the risk of transmission.