Hepatitis A Cases Surge In Maharashtra: With The Onset Of Monsoon, Cases Double This Year In Pune

With the onset of monsoon, Hepatitis A infections surge in Pune, almost double that of last year.

Maharashtra has reported a surge in hepatitis infections, with one of its major cities, Pune, witnessing a sharp rise in hepatitis A. What has made the situation even more concerning is not the unprecedented growth in the cases but the worsening intensity of the condition.

Hepatitis A Cases In Pune Double This Year

It has been reported that in the period between March and June 2025, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has recorded 57 cases of viral hepatitis, and what is alarming is that this number is more than double the cases that were reported in the same month last year, which was 26.

On testing, the majority of these cases of infections have been detected positive for hepatitis A, which is an infection that is known to affect the liver and occurs due to poor water hygiene. Nothing of the cause of the infection, the health experts have highlighted a few possible concerns, including the increase in rain, which has led to the contamination of water. This, according to them, is the major possible reason behind the intensity of the cases.

As it has been reported with the onset of monsoon that many areas and localities in Pune have seen a problem of water logging and leakages of pipes, and all of this is contributing to the increase in the problem of sewage mixing with potable or drinking water. This continues to be the main reason behind the surge of hepatitis A outbreaks.

Hepatitis A Severity Raises Concerns This Year

The severity of the hepatitis A infection is considered to be at a higher level than in past years. Usually, it has been noted that the condition remains mild to moderate and ends up clearing up on its own. But what has alarmed the public and the authorities this year is that more patients have been detected, and many of them have reported having stronger symptoms, while some of them have also been admitted to hospitals for extra care.

The past years too have reported hepatitis cases, but the intensity wasn’t serious, unlike this year when the infection is reflecting symptoms of a more severe variant of the condition, that is hepatitis E.

What Is Triggering Hepatitis A Cases In Pune

A 2019 study, which was published in the Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hepatology, has stated that the hepatitis A infection often peaks during the period of monsoon, as it is known to originate due to contaminated water that is more rampant in urban localities.

Another study, which was made in 2021 by Central India, published in The Lancet Regional Health, highlighted that hepatitis A accounted for about 11.5 per cent of all hospitalisations due to viral hepatitis. Most patients recovered without facing the intensity of the virus, but the study also reported more severe illness among adults, especially those with low immunity.

What Is Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A is known to primarily spread through contaminated food or water. This is the virus that is prevalent in India these days. It often causes a short-term illness with full recovery. Hepatitis A symptoms can vary from mild to severe, and the symptoms often include flu-like symptoms, like jaundice, and other gastrointestinal issues.

How To Prevent Hepatitis A

To prevent Hepatitis A, focus on vaccination, practising good hygiene, and being cautious with food and water, especially when travelling. Thorough handwashing, especially after using the restroom and before meals, is crucial. Additionally, ensuring food is well-cooked and water is purified can significantly reduce the risk of infection.

Here’s a more detailed breakdown:

Vaccination

If you want to go for the most effective way to prevent Hepatitis A, then it’s the vaccine that is the answer. The hepatitis A vaccine is generally given in two shots, and it’s recommended for children over 12 months as part of routine vaccinations. Individuals who are more prone to the risk, such as those who visit the palaces with high prevalence or those with serious health conditions, should also consider vaccination on the advice of the doctor.

Handwashing

It is very important to keep your hands clean. One must frequently and thoroughly wash hands with soap and water, as it is one of the essential tips to tackle the virus. More specifically, the people are asked to wash their hands after using the restroom, changing diapers, and before preparing or eating food.

Opting for Safe Food and Water Practices

The people are asked to avoid raw or undercooked shellfish, which can be the case in southern India, where diets are often of sea-based foods. Shellfish, specifically the ones that are caught from the potentially contaminated waters, should be thoroughly cooked before consumption.

Hepatitis A is a health condition that can be serious if not treated properly. This condition is known to spread through the consumption of contaminated water and food. Apart from this, it can also spread through coming in contact with a person who has already been infected. The authorities have asked the people to remain vigilant and report any symptoms to a doctor as soon as possible, as any delay in reporting can lead to a serious situation, including a delayed diagnosis and treatment, which can result in the escalation and severity of the disease.