Introduction

Hepatitis A is caused by Hepatitis A Virus (HAV). Central HealthIntelligence Bureaureported viralhepatitis cases in the range of1,44,000–1,60,000 per year over last few years.Major mode of transmission is feco-oral route and is mischievously known to cause epidemics. And in 0.5% patients is known to be fatal

Signs and Symptoms

HAV has an incubation period (Period from infection to disease) of 15-45 days. Patients commonly present with symptoms such as Fever, Vomiting, Pain in Abdomen and Jaundice. Hepatomegaly (Increased size of liver) and jaundice is commonly seen in such children.

Recovery and Complications

Most patients will recover completely and spontaneously within 2 months. In some patients symptoms will last upto 6 months. Fulminant Hepatic Failure is a rare complication requiring ICU admission and can be fatal.

Treatment

There is no specific treatment. Treatment aims to relieve symptoms and nutritional and supportive.

Prevention

HAV can be prevented by maintaining hygiene. Food and water should be properly cooked and hand wash before eating is a must.

Hepatitis A can be very effectively managed by Vaccination. There are 2 types of HAV vaccines presently available in India – Live Vaccine and Inactivated Vaccine.

Only one dose of Live Vaccine after 12 months of age is sufficient and 2 doses of inactivated vaccine is required as per Indian Academy of Pediatrics.

Dr. Ankit Agarwal (MD Pediaticrs, New Born and Child Specialist) is working in this field for last more than 10 years. And has experience in management of Hepatitis A and also its vaccination and prevention.