Every monsoon season, hospitals across India report a surge in acute hepatitis cases—an infection of the liver marked by fever, nausea, fatigue, abdominal pain, and symptoms resembling jaundice. Now, researchers from civic-run Nair and Kasturba Hospitals in Mumbai have identified Hepatitis E as the primary cause behind this seasonal rise.
Hepatitis E Tops the List of Viral Causes
In a three-year study published in the Medical Journal of Viral Hepatitis, doctors analysed data from 2,488 patients treated at Kasturba Hospital, Mumbai. They found that Hepatitis E accounted for 52.65% of all acute hepatitis cases, followed by Hepatitis A at 22.18%, and Hepatitis B at 10.56%. The data showed a consistent pattern across all age groups, with Hepatitis E emerging as the most common cause.
Young Adults and Men More Affected
As reported by Hindustan Times, the study revealed that 66.1% of patients were male, and the highest incidence occurred in individuals aged 18 to 30 years. Most of the patients came from Mumbai and its surrounding areas and belonged to economically weaker sections.
Contaminated Water the Main Culprit
Researchers attributed the spike in Hepatitis E cases during the monsoon to contaminated food and water, often resulting from sewage accumulation and poor sanitation. These conditions provide an ideal environment for the virus to spread.
Hepatitis Types: Transmission and Risk Factors
While Hepatitis A and E spread through contaminated water and food, Hepatitis B, C, and D are transmitted through blood and body fluids. These latter types can cause long-term complications like cirrhosis, liver failure, and liver cancer. Notably, the study found that as people age, the prevalence of Hepatitis A and E declines, while Hepatitis B and C become more common.
Most Cases Recover, But Severe Complications Possible
Dr Pravin Rathi, head of gastroenterology at Nair Hospital, stated that 98% of acute hepatitis cases recover fully. However, the remaining 2% risk progressing to liver failure or cirrhosis, requiring urgent liver transplantation. Pregnant women face higher mortality rates from Hepatitis E, posing a threat to both mothers and unborn babies.
Signs and Symptoms to Watch For
In Hepatitis E patients, the study observed gastrointestinal bleeding, anemia, low serum albumin, and in some cases, acute liver failure (ALF) or acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF). About 30% experienced pruritus—a persistent itch often caused by cholestasis, or blocked bile flow.
Decline in Hepatitis C Cases
Encouragingly, the researchers noted a decline in Hepatitis C cases, likely due to the availability of effective antiviral treatments.
Prevention is Key
The researchers strongly emphasized preventive measures, especially during summer and monsoon:
- Boil drinking water or use water purifiers
- Avoid street food, particularly during the rainy season
- Ensure no cross-contamination between sewage and water pipelines
Acute Hepatitis Remains a Major Public Health Concern
“Acute hepatitis continues to be a major health burden in low- and middle-income countries like India,” the researchers wrote. “While most cases are linked to viral hepatitis, rising urbanisation and increased awareness have led to more diagnoses of autoimmune and drug-induced liver injuries as well.”
Monsoon-linked infections are on the rise. Timely public health interventions, improved sanitation, and greater awareness can significantly reduce the burden of preventable hepatitis in India.