Prevalence of Hepatitis A in and around the Aligarh region

Abstract

Background: Hepatitis A virus (HAV) most commonly affects children, is transmitted by faecal–oral route and is prevalent worldwide. It is usually present in the highest concentration in the stool of the infected individuals, with the greatest viral load occurring near the end of the incubation period. Aim: The aim of the present study was to study the prevalence of hepatitis A in and around the Aligarh region. Methodology: A total of 524 samples were collected from all age groups, who were suspected of having viral hepatitis. The serum was separated and processed for performing the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (DIA. PRO, Italy). Results: Out of 524 samples tested, 229 (43.7%) were positive for anti-HAV immunoglobulin M, most of which (82.53%) were from the 10 years' age group. Conclusions: The predominance of hepatitis A was found in under 10-year-old children, with mast case occurrences between June and September.