14.11.2025

Hepatitis A and Public Health Policy

Context

India is considering adding the Hepatitis A vaccine to the Universal Immunization Programme (UIP) due to rising adult cases, changing infection patterns, and strong evidence supporting long-term vaccine protection.

About the Issue

Background

• Hepatitis A is a contagious liver infection spread through contaminated food, water, or close contact.
   
• Symptoms include jaundice, nausea, and abdominal pain; severe cases may lead to liver failure.
   
• With no specific antiviral treatment, vaccination remains the primary preventive tool.
   

Public Health Importance

• Adult infections are more severe as early childhood exposure has declined.
   
• Outbreaks have increased in states like Kerala, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, and Delhi.
   

Universal Immunization Programme (UIP)

• One of India’s most successful public health programs, eliminating Polio and reducing Measles mortality.
   
• Adding Hepatitis A could help control rising adult morbidity and outbreaks.
   

Epidemiological Shift

Changing Pattern

• Earlier: Children commonly contracted mild infections and developed natural immunity.
   
• Now: Better sanitation delays exposure, making adolescents and adults more vulnerable to severe disease.
   

Impact

• Higher outbreak risk, more hospitalizations, and greater economic burden.
   

Vaccine Landscape

Effectiveness

• Provides 90–95% protection with immunity lasting 15–20 years or longer.
   
• Strong ability to prevent severe infections and community clusters.
   

Indigenous Vaccine

• India produces BioVac A, used safely for over two decades in the private sector.
   
• Unlike some treatments for other diseases, it does not contribute to antibiotic resistance.
   

Policy Recommendations

• Experts support including Hepatitis A in UIP due to long-term protection and growing adult susceptibility.
   

Challenges

• Additional cost and logistics for national rollout.
   
• Need updated surveillance to identify high-burden regions.
   
• Ensuring awareness and equitable vaccine access across states.
   

Way Forward

Policy Steps

• Conduct national disease assessments and cost–benefit analysis.
   
• Consider phased or region-specific inclusion into UIP.
   

Awareness & Capacity

• Educate communities on hygiene and vaccination benefits.
   
• Strengthen cold-chain systems and reporting mechanisms.

Conclusion

Rising adult vulnerability and a proven indigenous vaccine strengthen the case for adding Hepatitis A to UIP. A well-planned, evidence-based policy can reduce outbreaks and support long-term public health goals.