0
0
NEW DELHI – India has recorded over 2,700 deaths attributed to Hepatitis B in the past five years, according to information presented to the Rajya Sabha. The data, shared by the Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Anupriya Patel, highlights a concerning trend in the prevalence of this potentially fatal liver infection.
In 2024 alone, 607 deaths were reported, with Maharashtra registering the highest number at 124. This information was disclosed in a written reply on March 18th.
The minister’s response revealed a fluctuating yet overall increasing trend in Hepatitis B-related fatalities. While 173 deaths were reported in 2019-20 and the number decreased to 139 in 2020-21, a significant surge occurred in 2021-22, with over 323 deaths. This upward trajectory continued, with 515 deaths in 2022-23 and 972 in 2023-24. In 2024-25, 607 deaths were reported.
Other states contributing to the death toll include Gujarat (95), West Bengal (80), Uttar Pradesh (79), Madhya Pradesh (72), Rajasthan (64), Tamil Nadu (27), and Kerala (2).
In response to the public health challenge, the government launched the National Viral Hepatitis Control Program (NVHCP) in 2018 under the National Health Mission (NHM). Initially focusing on Hepatitis C, A, and E, the program expanded to include Hepatitis B diagnosis and management in 2019.
Recognizing Hepatitis B as a vaccine-preventable disease, the NVHCP provides Hepatitis B birth dose vaccines and Hepatitis B Immunoglobulin to infants born to Hepatitis B-positive mothers. The program emphasizes prevention through awareness campaigns and behavior change communication, offering free diagnostic and treatment services at designated government health facilities.
Hepatitis B, a liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus, can manifest as acute or chronic illness. The virus is commonly transmitted from mother to child during birth and delivery, and can also spread through contact with infected blood or body fluids, including during sexual intercourse or through unsafe injections.
Disclaimer: This news article is based on information provided by the Indian government and is intended for informational purposes only. It should not be considered medical advice. For specific health concerns, please consult a qualified healthcare professional. The reported data may be subject to revisions and updates. The year 2024-25 was used as written in the source material, but may be a typo.
