World Hepatitis Day 2024: In-Depth Interview with Dr. S K Sarin Part 1

Summary

In this informative video script, Dr. Serin discusses various types of hepatitis, emphasizing the importance of vaccination, particularly for newborns and high-risk groups. He highlights the Yellow Ribbon Campaign's role in raising awareness and the need for societal empathy towards those affected by hepatitis. The script also addresses misconceptions about transmission, the significance of testing and treatment, and the goal of eliminating Hepatitis B by 2030.

Takeaways

• 📌 Hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E are different types of viral infections affecting the liver, with A and E being typically acquired through contaminated food or water.
• 👶 Hepatitis A is common in children and often goes unnoticed, while Hepatitis E can affect adults and pregnant women, causing epidemics.
• 🧬 Hepatitis B and C are blood-borne viruses, with B being a DNA virus and C an RNA virus. Hepatitis D only occurs in individuals already infected with Hepatitis B.
• 💉 The yellow ribbon campaign was initiated in 1998 to raise awareness about Hepatitis B, emphasizing the importance of vaccination and prevention.
• 🏥 Dr. Serin, a renowned hepatologist, has been instrumental in promoting hepatitis awareness and vaccination programs in India.
• 👨‍⚕️ Healthcare workers are particularly at risk and should ensure they are vaccinated and have sufficient antibody levels to protect against Hepatitis B.
• 🚫 Hepatitis B is a silent killer that can persist in the body for decades without symptoms, leading to serious complications like liver cancer.
• 👶 The World Health Organization (WHO) aims for 90% birth dose coverage of the Hepatitis B vaccine by 2030 to prevent new infections.
• 💪 Vaccination against Hepatitis B is crucial for newborns and adults alike, providing lifelong protection against the virus.
• 🌐 Stigma associated with Hepatitis B can lead to social isolation and hinders people from getting tested and treated.
• 🌟 Empathy and understanding are vital in supporting those affected by Hepatitis B, with campaigns like 'Empathy Empowering People Against Hepatitis' working to combat stigma.

Q & A

What are the different types of Hepatitis mentioned in the script?

The script mentions Hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E as the different types of Hepatitis.

How is Hepatitis A typically contracted?

Hepatitis A is typically contracted through contaminated food or water.

What does the 'e' in Hepatitis E stand for?

The 'e' in Hepatitis E stands for 'epidemic', indicating that it can affect many people at once and is also transmitted through food and water.

What is the primary mode of transmission for Hepatitis B?

The primary mode of transmission for Hepatitis B is from mother to baby, accounting for about 95% of cases.

How does the script describe the nature of Hepatitis C?

The script describes Hepatitis C as an RNA virus that is generally transmitted through injections and other means involving contact with infected blood.

What is the significance of the Yellow Ribbon Campaign mentioned in the script?

The Yellow Ribbon Campaign is a public awareness initiative aimed at raising awareness about Hepatitis B, launched in 1998, and it signifies jaundice and the liver.

What is the importance of the birth dose coverage for Hepatitis B vaccination mentioned by Dr. Serin?

The birth dose coverage for Hepatitis B vaccination is crucial as it provides lifelong protection against the virus, and the WHO target for 2030 is to achieve 90% coverage.

What is the difference between immunization and vaccination as explained by Dr. Serin?

Immunization refers to having antibodies against a disease, while vaccination is the process of receiving a vaccine to stimulate the body to produce those antibodies.

Why is it important for healthcare workers to be immunized against Hepatitis B?

Healthcare workers are at a higher risk of exposure to the Hepatitis B virus due to their work environment, so being immunized ensures they are protected and can prevent the spread of the virus.

What is the impact of Hepatitis B on an individual's health if left untreated?

If left untreated, Hepatitis B can lead to chronic liver disease, cirrhosis, liver cancer, and even death.

What is the script's message regarding the stigma associated with Hepatitis B?

The script emphasizes the need to eliminate the social stigma associated with Hepatitis B, which often leads to discrimination and isolation of affected individuals, and promotes empathy and support for those living with the disease.