Etiological Profile Of Viral Hepatitis In North India: A Cross Sectional Study
Abstract
Introduction: Viral hepatitis continues to remain an important public health concern, particularly in developing nations like India. Majority of such cases present with a mild anicteric illness in children. Severe illness, including progression to acute liver failure, is also known to occur.
Objective: To study the seroprevalence of markers of viral hepatitis in children less than 5 years, who present with jaundice.
Materials and methods: We performed a cross-sectional study on 397 children less than 5 years of age who presented with jaundice to the hospital. The study population was screened for serological markers of the hepatotropic viruses. A structured questionnaire was drafted to enquire about the immunization status and source of potable water. Statistical analysis used: Statistical analysis was performed using the Epi Info software 3.5.4 version 2012.
Results: Our study showed that Hepatitis A was the commonest cause of acute viral hepatitis in children less than 5 years of age, followed by Hepatitis E virus. Hepatitis A and E co-infection was the most common type of co-infection. Conclusion: The efficacy of vaccination against Hepatitis A and B has been reiterated in our study. Using any method of water filtration protects against Hepatitis A and E infection.
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