Hepatitis is a viral disease that primarily affects the liver. There are 4 types: Hepatitis A, B, C and D.
Hep B and C are transmitted through blood while one can contract Hep A by having close contact with an infected person, from food or drinks prepared by someone who is infected, or by eating shellfish harvested from sewage-contaminated water.
One cannot contract Hep D without already having Hep B.
So, should you be worried about contracting Hepatitis from your local Dhaba? Well, yes and no. Yes, you could ensure the food is prepared hygienically, that is if the cook is using gloves/masks etc. But there is really no way to ensure that your favourite Bhel Puri is 100% hygienic as local carts are not subject to health checks. Thus, No you really shouldn’t have the constant fear of Hepatitis looming over you every time you eat out.
This is due to the fact that Hepatitis A and B have vaccines implying that most people(maybe including yourself) have already been vaccinated as young as 1. If you wish to actively help stop the spread of Hepatitis, participating in Hepatitis awareness events and rallies would be the most effective.
Awareness is the key to a disease-free world
World Hepatitis Day 28th July
By: Aniruddh R Kurpad
Health Blogger
