World Hepatitis Day 2026: Hepatitis A to E explained, symptoms, risk factors and prevention

New Delhi: Every 30 seconds, someone around the world loses their life to hepatitis-related liver disease as per World Health Organization. Yet, millions remain unaware they are infected because the disease often develops silently, showing no symptoms until severe liver damage has already occurred. On World Hepatitis Day, observed every year on July 28, health experts are urging people to understand the different types of hepatitis, identify their risk factors, and get tested early. This year’s campaign is a reminder that awareness, vaccination and timely treatment can prevent countless deaths and bring the world closer to eliminating viral hepatitis as a public health threat by 2030. World Hepatitis Day 2026 is being observed under the theme “Hepatitis: Let’s Break It Down”, a global call led by the World Health Organization (WHO) to break down the barriers that prevent people from accessing testing, vaccination, treatment and reliable information. The campaign also seeks to tackle the stigma surrounding hepatitis, which often delays diagnosis and care. What is hepatitis Hepatitis refers to inflammation of the liver. While it can be caused by alcohol misuse, certain medications, toxins or autoimmune diseases, viral hepatitis remains the most common cause globally. The five major hepatitis viruses—A, B, C, D and E—spread in different ways and vary in severity, but all can damage the liver if left untreated. Hepatitis A: Usually short-term but highly contagious Hepatitis A is primarily spread through contaminated food or water or close contact with an infected person. Unlike hepatitis B and C, it does not cause chronic infection and most people recover completely within a few weeks or months. Who’s most at risk? Travellers to regions with poor sanitation People consuming contaminated food or water Household contacts of infected individuals Men who have sex with men People living in areas with inadequate sanitation Can it be prevented? Yes. Safe drinking water, proper hygiene and vaccination offer strong protection. Hepatitis B: A leading cause of liver cancer Hepatitis B spreads through infected blood and bodily fluids, including during childbirth, unprotected sex and the sharing of contaminated needles. While many adults recover, infection acquired during infancy or early childhood frequently becomes chronic, significantly increasing the risk of cirrhosis and liver cancer. Who’s most at risk? Infants born to infected mothers Healthcare workers exposed to blood People who inject drugs Individuals with multiple sexual partners Family members living with infected individuals People requiring frequent blood transfusions or dialysis A safe and highly effective vaccine is available, making hepatitis B one of the most preventable viral infections. Hepatitis C: Often symptomless for years Hepatitis C is mainly transmitted through blood-to-blood contact. Many infected individuals experience no symptoms for years, allowing liver damage to progress unnoticed. However, modern antiviral medicines can cure more than 95% of hepatitis C infections when diagnosed early. Who’s most at risk? People who inject drugs Individuals who received unscreened blood transfusions in the past Healthcare workers after accidental needle-stick injuries People undergoing unsafe tattooing or piercing procedures Those with long-term haemodialysis Unlike hepatitis A and B, there is currently no vaccine against hepatitis C, making testing and prevention especially important. Hepatitis D: Only affects people with hepatitis B Hepatitis D is unique because it can infect only those who already have hepatitis B. It often causes more severe liver disease and faster progression to cirrhosis. Who’s most at risk? People living with chronic hepatitis B Individuals who inject drugs People exposed to infected blood Vaccination against hepatitis B also protects against hepatitis D. Hepatitis E: A serious concern during pregnancy Hepatitis E spreads mainly through contaminated drinking water and is common in areas with poor sanitation. Most infections resolve on their own, but pregnant women – particularly during the third trimester – face a much higher risk of severe complications and death. Who’s most at risk? Pregnant women People living in regions with unsafe water supplies Travellers to endemic areas Communities affected by floods or poor sanitation Improved sanitation, access to clean water and safe food practices remain the best preventive measures. Warning signs that should never be ignored Many people with viral hepatitis experience no symptoms initially. When symptoms do occur, they may include: Persistent fatigue Fever Loss of appetite Nausea and vomiting Pain in the upper right side of the abdomen Dark-coloured urine Pale stools Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice) One of the biggest challenges in eliminating hepatitis is that millions of people remain undiagnosed. According to the WHO, hepatitis B and C together account for more than 95 per cent of viral hepatitis-related deaths, despite being preventable, treatable and, in the case of hepatitis C, curable. Early diagnosis enables timely treatment, reduces complications and prevents transmission to others. How to protect yourself Simple preventive measures can significantly reduce the risk of viral hepatitis: Get vaccinated against hepatitis A and B if eligible. Drink clean, safe water and eat hygienically prepared food. Practise safe sex. Never share needles, razors or toothbrushes. Ensure tattoos and piercings are done with sterile equipment. Seek screening if you belong to a high-risk group or believe you may have been exposed. World Hepatitis Day 2026 serves as a powerful reminder that hepatitis is largely preventable and in many cases treatable or curable. Understanding the differences between hepatitis A, B, C, D and E, recognising who is most vulnerable, and prioritising vaccination, testing and early treatment can save lives.