World Hepatitis Day: Raising awareness for a healthier future

Every year 28th July is observed as World Hepatitis Day, which is a global initiative aimed at raising awareness about viral hepatitis and promoting measures for its prevention, diagnosis and treatment. This day serves as a platform to unite individuals, in the fight against this severe and often misunderstood disease. With millions of people worldwide affected by hepatitis, understanding the symptoms and taking necessary precautions can save countless lives.

Understanding hepatitis

Hepatitis refers to inflammation of the liver, commonly caused by viral infections. There are five main types of hepatitis viruses: A, B, C, D, and E. Each type poses different challenges and requires specific preventive measures and treatments.

• Hepatitis A (HAV): This type is usually transmitted through contaminated food and water.

• Hepatitis B (HBV): Transmitted through contact with infectious body fluids, such as blood, semen and vaginal fluids, hepatitis B can cause both acute and chronic liver disease.

• Hepatitis C (HCV): Primarily spread through blood-to-blood contact, hepatitis C often becomes chronic, leading to serious liver complications if untreated.

• Hepatitis D (HDV): This type occurs only in individuals infected with HBV, as it relies on HBV for replication.

• Hepatitis E (HEV): Similar to hepatitis A, HEV is typically spread through contaminated water. It generally causes an acute infection, but it can be particularly dangerous for pregnant women.

Symptoms of hepatitis

It is crucial to recognise the symptoms of hepatitis for early diagnosis and treatment. Symptoms can vary depending on the type of hepatitis and whether the infection is acute or chronic. Common symptoms include:

• Fatigue: One of the most prevalent symptoms, often severe enough to affect daily activities.

• Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin and eyes due to the liver's inability to process bilirubin.

• Dark urine and pale stools: Indications of liver dysfunction.

• Abdominal pain: Particularly in the upper right side where the liver is located.

• Loss of appetite and nausea: Often leading to weight loss.

• Joint pain and muscle aches: Common in viral hepatitis infections.

• Fever: Mild to moderate fever can occur, especially in acute cases.

Precautionary measures

Preventing hepatitis requires a multifaceted approach, including vaccination, safe practices and public awareness. Here are some effective precautionary measures:

• Vaccination: Vaccines are available for hepatitis A and B. Immunisation is highly effective in preventing these infections.

• Safe food and water: Ensuring access to clean drinking water and maintaining good sanitation and hygiene can prevent hepatitis A and E. Properly cooking food and avoiding raw or undercooked shellfish are also important.

• Avoid sharing sharp items: Sharp items such as razors, nail clippers, toothbrushes and earrings or body rings must be avoided to prevent the spread of hepatitis D.

• Blood safety: Ensuring the safety of blood transfusions and organ transplants through rigorous screening and testing can prevent the spread of hepatitis B and C.

Conclusion

World Hepatitis Day is an important reminder of the ongoing battle against viral hepatitis. We can protect ourselves and others from this potentially life-threatening disease by understanding the symptoms and taking preventive measures. Let's use this day to spread awareness, promote health, and work towards a future where hepatitis is no longer a global health concern.