GLOBAL HEPATITIS REPORT 2024

• In 2022, there were more than 50,000 newly reported cases of Hepatitis B and 140,000 new cases of Hepatitis C in India, resulting in the deaths of approximately 123,000 individuals, according to the report.
• Both infections are transmitted from mother to child during childbirth, through unscreened blood transfusions, contact with infected blood, or sharing needles among drug users. The report emphasizes the importance of vaccination to prevent Hepatitis B, while noting that Hepatitis C is treatable with medication.
• Hepatitis B typically causes acute symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and jaundice for several weeks, sometimes leading to liver failure. However, the main concern is its potential to develop into chronic, lifelong liver disease, particularly problematic when contracted during childhood.
• Chronic infection can lead to liver scarring (cirrhosis) and increase the risk of liver cancer, although there are medications available to slow the progression of the virus in chronic cases.
• Many individuals infected with Hepatitis C do not experience symptoms or are unaware of their infection. Those who do develop symptoms usually notice them between two to 12 weeks after exposure, including jaundice, loss of appetite, nausea, abdominal pain, fever, dark urine, pale stools, joint pain, and fatigue

Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C are both viral infections that primarily affect the liver.

Hepatitis B:

• Hepatitis B is caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV), which is transmitted through contact with infected blood or bodily fluids.
• This can occur through unprotected sexual intercourse, sharing needles or syringes, or from an infected mother to her baby during childbirth.
• In some cases, hepatitis B can also be transmitted through contact with contaminated objects, such as shared razors or toothbrushes.
• Hepatitis B infection can lead to both acute and chronic forms of the disease. Acute hepatitis B is a short-term illness that typically resolves on its own within a few months, although some individuals may develop chronic hepatitis B, where the infection persists for six months or longer.
• Chronic hepatitis B can lead to serious liver complications over time, including liver cirrhosis, liver failure, and liver cancer.
• Prevention of hepatitis B primarily involves vaccination, which is highly effective at preventing infection. Treatment for hepatitis B may involve antiviral medications to control the virus and prevent liver damage, although not everyone with chronic hepatitis B requires treatment.

Hepatitis C:

• Hepatitis C is caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV), which is transmitted through contact with infected blood. This can occur through sharing needles or syringes, receiving contaminated blood transfusions or organ transplants, or from an infected mother to her baby during childbirth.
• Hepatitis C can also be transmitted through less common routes, such as sharing personal items like razors or toothbrushes. Hepatitis C infection can lead to both acute and chronic forms of the disease.
• Acute hepatitis C is a short-term illness that typically develops within six months of exposure to the virus. Most individuals with acute hepatitis C develop chronic hepatitis C, which can lead to serious liver complications over time, including liver cirrhosis, liver failure, and liver cancer.
• Unlike hepatitis B, there is currently no vaccine available for hepatitis C. However, hepatitis C is curable with antiviral medications, and recent advancements in treatment have significantly improved cure rates for the infection.
• Treatment for hepatitis C typically involves a combination of antiviral medications taken over several weeks to months, depending on the specific genotype of the virus and other factors. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for preventing liver damage and complications from hepatitis C infection