New Delhi: Hepatitis C is a disease caused by the Hepatitis C virus and it can lead from mild to serious illness. It can also continue for life and in extreme cases, the same may raise the risk of cancer, cirrhosis, liver failure and even death, if left untreated. In case of unborn children, the virus can transmit from a pregnant women to the foetus as well. Doctors say that this is called vertical transmission and is one of the top causes of the infection in children. It usually occurs in the last month of pregnancy or during delivery. But can this be prevented?
How to prevent Hepatitis in children?
In an interaction with News9Live, Dr. Lokesh L V, Lead Consultant Gastroenterologist, SPARSH Hospital, Infantry Road, shared some preventive tips for parents.
“When a newborn has hepatitis, they face significant health challenges, including jaundice, poor feeding, and potential liver damage. These infants are particularly vulnerable due to their immature immune systems. Screening for hepatitis in newborns is essential, typically done through blood tests, to detect the infection early. Early diagnosis enables prompt treatment, which can prevent severe liver complications and support healthy development. In addition to screening, it is crucial to ensure that mothers are tested for hepatitis during pregnancy and to promote hepatitis B vaccination at birth. Comprehensive care and monitoring are vital to protect these newborns and give them the best start in life.”
Dr Aditya Kulkarni, Consultant Pediatric Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Narayana Health SRCC Children’s Hospital, too, shared some inputs.
“Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver, most common reason being viral infections. In children, hepatitis can lead to serious health complications, including liver damage, and failure to thrive. Children can be particularly vulnerable to hepatitis due to their developing immune systems and potential exposure through close contact in schools or communities. Screening children for hepatitis is crucial as early detection brings timely intervention, reducing the risk of severe outcomes. By identifying and treating hepatitis early, we can safeguard their liver health and ensure they have the opportunity to grow and develop without the burden of this potentially debilitating disease.”
What are the symptoms of Hepatitis C?
Doctors say that most of the people infected with Hepatitis C do not have symptoms in the first six months of the infection. The symptoms include:
Nausea
Vomiting
Abdominal pain
Dark urine
Clay-coloured stools
Fatigued
Jaundice
Loss of appetite
Fever
Joint pain
When a newborn has hepatitis, they face significant health challenges, including jaundice, poor feeding, and potential liver damage. These infants are particularly vulnerable due to their immature immune systems. Screening for hepatitis in newborns is essential, typically done through blood tests, to detect the infection early. Health News Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
