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Pune: The city is witnessing a significant surge in hepatitis A cases during the current monsoon season, with healthcare professionals reporting not only a sharp increase in numbers but also cases exhibiting heightened severity compared to previous years. Recent data from the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) confirms that viral hepatitis cases have more than doubled between March and June 2025, with 57 reported cases compared to 26 during the same period last year. An even higher rise is expected for July, as substantial rainfall continues and the latest figures are still pending collection.
Doctors Observe Unusual Trends
Medical specialists across Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) regions highlight that this year’s spike in hepatitis A cases is more pronounced than the typical monsoon uptick.
“Every monsoon there is a sort of surge in cases of jaundice per se. But this year, the monsoon has arrived earlier, and the cases of hepatitis A are also relatively more in number compared to every year,” explained Dr. Piyush Chaudhary, infectious disease specialist at Jehangir Hospital.
Doctors are particularly concerned about the rising share of severe cases. “The proportion of severe hepatitis A cases is relatively more this year compared to the last several years. Severe and fulminant hepatitis is typically associated with hepatitis E, but this year, hepatitis A cases are presenting with more severe symptoms,” Dr. Chaudhary noted.
Scope of the Outbreak
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The surge appears widespread across Pune and PCMC, rather than localized outbreaks.
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Dr. Amol Dahale, a gastroenterologist, reported seeing nearly 70 hepatitis A cases in May-June this year compared to around 30 last year during the same period.
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Illnesses also seem more prolonged, with patients suffering longer recoveries.
Suspected Causes: Water and Food Contamination
Contaminated water emerges as the primary culprit, exacerbated by monsoon-related flooding. Dr. Prasad Bhate from Manipal Hospital described a two-to-threefold increase in hepatitis A cases in PCMC zones compared to last year, directly attributing it to contaminated water sources.
Two main contamination routes have been identified:
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Direct Water Contamination: Overflowing sewage lines mixing with drinking water due to heavy rainfall, broken pipelines, or unsatisfactory sewage treatment.
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Indirect Food Contamination: Use of contaminated water in washing vegetables, fruits, or utensils, as well as eating high-water-content street foods.
Dr. Govind Kulkarni from Sahyadri Super Speciality Hospital shared firsthand accounts of patients likely exposed through contaminated water sources near Sanjay Park and other affected areas.
Symptoms and Prevention
Common symptoms include:
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Fever
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Abdominal pain
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Nausea
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Weakness
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Dark-colored urine
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Yellowing of the eyes
Dr. Hillary Rodrigues, a family physician, highlights both water contamination and exposure to open food or symptomatic food handlers as key risk factors. He recommends vaccination—two injections spaced six months apart—for those visiting high-risk regions or eating out frequently. Additional prevention tips include:
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Boil and filter drinking water.
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Maintain hand hygiene.
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Avoid uncooked and open street foods.
Disclaimer
This article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you suspect hepatitis A infection or have symptoms, consult a qualified healthcare provider immediately.
