Hepatitis A and E Outbreak in Delhi: Experts Warn of Poor Sanitation, Unsafe Water, and Street Food

Strategic Insights -

As heavy monsoon rains continue to drench Delhi-NCR, hospitals in the national capital are reporting a worrying increase in hepatitis A and E cases, with a 30-40 per cent rise in acute viral hepatitis cases compared to other months. Experts warn that poor sanitation, unsafe water, and street food are driving the seasonal outbreak, threatening children and pregnant women.

Key Takeaways:

  • The monsoon season creates ideal conditions for the spread of hepatitis viruses, with waterlogging, open drains, and sewage contamination of drinking water being common problems across the city.
  • The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates around 20 million people worldwide contract hepatitis E each year, with India contributing a significant share of cases.
  • Over 70 per cent of hepatitis cases reported during the monsoon in India are caused by the hepatitis E virus, with hepatitis A remaining especially common among children under 15.
  • Dr. Abhideep Chaudhary, president-elect of the Liver Transplantation Society of India (LTSI), stated that most patients are unaware of hepatitis vaccination, and unsafe water and lack of awareness remain key triggers.
  • LTSI president Dr. Sanjiv Saigal emphasized that this is a seasonal epidemic that returns every year, yet preparedness is lacking, and these infections are entirely preventable through clean water, hygienic food handling, and vaccination for high-risk groups.
  • Health experts point out that misinformation about jaundice and hepatitis is making the situation worse, with many people believing hepatitis is self-limiting and doesn't need medical care.
  • Non-governmental organizations and local health bodies have begun awareness drives in flood-prone neighbourhoods, with health camps being set up, and residents being educated on basic hygiene measures.
  • Experts stress that clean water supply, stricter checks on food hygiene, and greater public awareness could go a long way in curbing this seasonal threat.

Statistics:

  • 30-40 per cent rise in acute viral hepatitis cases compared to other months
  • 20 million people worldwide contract hepatitis E each year (WHO estimate)
  • Over 70 per cent of hepatitis cases reported during the monsoon in India are caused by the hepatitis E virus
  • 40 per cent surge in acute viral hepatitis in the last three weeks, according to BLK-Max Hospital

Sources:

  • TOI report on increased acute viral hepatitis cases
  • World Health Organization (WHO) estimates on hepatitis E cases
  • Liver Transplantation Society of India (LTSI) reports on monsoon hepatitis outbreaks
  • Interview with Dr. Abhideep Chaudhary, president-elect of LTSI
  • Interview with Dr. Sanjiv Saigal, president of LTSI
  • Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute report on hepatitis prevention measures