Why Hepatitis A is no longer a simple disease in Kerala
Kerala has seen a significant rise in Hepatitis A cases, with 12,437 confirmed cases and 125 deaths reported this year, marking a shift in the affected demographic from children to young adults. Clinicians warn of severe symptoms and complications, including liver failure, as the population becomes increasingly vulnerable due to improved sanitation leading to a lack of childhood exposure. Experts advocate for universal Hepatitis A vaccination to mitigate the crisis, especially in high-risk areas like the Malappuram-Kozhikode belt.