Cases of Hepatitis A have surged in Delhi over the past few weeks, reported PTI. Hepatitis A, an inflammation (irritation and swelling) of the liver caused by the hepatitis A virus, spreads through person-to-person contact or consuming contaminated food or drink. Doctors at AIIMS Delhi have cautioned people against consuming contaminated food and water, the primary cause of Hepatitis A. Dr Shalimar, a professor at the Department of Gastroenterology at AIIMS, stated at a press conference that the hospital has seen a rise in Hepatitis A cases, with the majority of patients being children and individuals aged 18-25.
Symptoms of Hepatitis A
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), symptoms of Hepatitis A include:
- Fever
- Malaise (a general sense of being unwell)
- Loss of appetite
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Abdominal discomfort
- Dark-colored urine
- Jaundice (yellowing of the eyes and skin)
Not everyone who is infected will exhibit all the symptoms. Adults tend to show signs and symptoms of illness more often than children. The incubation period of Hepatitis A is usually 14-28 days.
Who Is at Risk of Getting Infected?
According to the WHO, anyone who has not been vaccinated or previously infected can contract the hepatitis A virus. Risk factors include:
- Poor sanitation
- Lack of safe water
- Living in a household with an infected person
- Being a sexual partner of someone with acute hepatitis A infection
- Use of recreational drugs
- Traveling to areas of high endemicity without being immunised
Also Read: 5 Habits That Could Be Ruining Your Hormones (And The Foods That Fix Them!)
How to Prevent Hepatitis A Infection
Hepatitis A and E, both primarily transmitted through drinking water contaminated with fecal matter, are self-limiting infections and do not require specific antiviral drugs for treatment. They are managed symptomatically, said Dr. Pramod Garg, head of the Department of Gastroenterology at AIIMS. "The spread of Hepatitis A and E can be largely prevented by ensuring access to safe and clean drinking water, safe food handling practices, and maintaining good hygiene," he said.
To limit your chance of contracting Hepatitis A, here are some prevention tips according to Healthline:
1. Wash Your Hands Always
Thoroughly wash your hands with soap and warm water before eating, drinking, and after using the restroom.
2. Drink Clean and Safe Water
Drink bottled water rather than local water in areas at risk for Hepatitis A.
3. Eat from Hygienic Places
Dine at clean and hygienic restaurants, rather than from street vendors with potential sanitation risks.
4. Avoid Raw Foods from Unhygienic Places
Avoid eating peeled or raw fruits and vegetables in areas with low sanitation or hygiene standards.
Also Read: Why You Should Avoid Consuming Leafy Greens Raw, According To Ayurvedic Doctor
Follow these preventative measures around food and water to protect yourself from contracting Hepatitis A. Stay safe and healthy!