Dr Khuroo for vigilance, public education
Excelsior Correspondent
Jammu, Apr 25: A significant step toward combating viral hepatitis was marked in Jammu with CME on Hepatitis E and the formal launch of a hepatitis E vaccine. The event brought together leading medical experts, with renowned gastroenterologists- Dr. Mohammad Sultan Khuroo (Ex-Director, SKIMS, Srinagar & Discoverer of Hepatitis E virus) and Dr. Bharat Bhushan Gupta (Ex-Professor & Head of Deptt. of Medicine & Gastroenterology, Govt. Medical College, Jammu) addressing healthcare professionals and the public.
The programme focused on raising awareness about Hepatitis E, a major public health concern in developing countries, including India. Experts highlighted that the disease is primarily transmitted through contaminated water and poor sanitation, and remains one of the leading causes of acute viral hepatitis in the country.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Khuroo-who first identified and described Hepatitis E during investigations of a large waterborne outbreak in Kashmir in 1978, leading to its recognition as a distinct viral entity-emphasized the need for continued vigilance and public education. He noted that hepatitis E can lead to severe complications, particularly among vulnerable groups.
A key concern discussed at length was the impact of hepatitis E in pregnancy. Experts pointed out that pregnant women, especially in the third trimester, face a significantly higher risk of severe disease. Infection during pregnancy can rapidly progress to acute liver failure, a life-threatening condition for both mother and child. Studies have shown that mortality rates in pregnant women infected with hepatitis E can range from 15% to as high as 25% in severe outbreaks.
Dr. Gupta highlighted that hepatitis E in pregnancy is also associated with complications such as premature delivery, stillbirth, and neonatal death. He stressed that early detection, supportive medical care, and preventive measures are critical to reducing these risks.
A key highlight of the programme was the launch of the hepatitis E vaccine, seen as a milestone in public health efforts. Medical experts explained that the vaccine has demonstrated high efficacy and offers a promising tool to protect high-risk populations, including women of childbearing age.
Experts also briefly outlined other indications for vaccination and heightened vigilance. These include individuals with chronic liver disease, who are at risk of severe outcomes if infected; immunocompromised patients, in whom the infection may become persistent; and populations in outbreak-prone or endemic regions with limited access to clean water and sanitation. Travelers to high-risk areas and people living in crowded or underserved conditions were also identified as groups that could benefit from preventive strategies, including vaccination.
The speakers called for targeted vaccination strategies, improved sanitation, safe drinking water and focused awareness campaigns, particularly in rural and underserved areas. They emphasized that integrating vaccination with maternal healthcare programmes could play a crucial role in reducing hepatitis E-related maternal mortality.
The event concluded with an interactive session, where participants discussed strengthening surveillance systems and expanding outreach initiatives. The launch of the vaccine, coupled with sustained awareness efforts, is expected to significantly reduce the burden of hepatitis E and improve maternal and public health outcomes in the region.
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