Pune is witnessing a sharp rise in hepatitis A cases this monsoon—and with more severe symptoms than usual. According to Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) data, 57 cases were recorded between March and June 2025, up from 26 during the same period last year.
The spike is linked to heavy early monsoon rainfall, which has led to contamination of drinking water through sewage leakage and flooding in certain areas. Rainwater often mixes with leaking sewage pipelines, contaminating drinking water, especially in older residential areas and slums.
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What is Hepatitis A?
Hepatitis A is a highly contagious liver infection caused by the Hepatitis A virus, primarily spreading through the faecal-oral route via contaminated water or food. Unlike Hepatitis B or C, it does not cause chronic infection, but severe cases can lead to prolonged illness, especially in adults.
While children may remain asymptomatic or have mild symptoms, adults often experience:
Fatigue, nausea, fever
Loss of appetite, abdominal pain
Dark urine, pale stools
Yellowing of skin and eyes (jaundice)
Why the sudden spike now?
Experts link the surge to early and intense monsoon rains, leading to waterlogging and sewage contamination in many parts of the city.
Additionally, the widespread consumption of street food prepared with contaminated water—including chutneys, raw salads, and sugarcane juice—has become a significant contributor to the spread of the virus. Street foods and condiments like chutneys often use unclean water during preparation.
These conditions are ideal for the fecal–oral spread of the virus.
Hepatitis A: Who is at most risk?
People consuming untreated or contaminated water
Individuals who eat street food frequently
Those who are unvaccinated against Hepatitis A
Children can be silent carriers, spreading the virus within households.
What can you do to stay safe?
Boil water before drinking or use reliable water purifiers.
Avoid street food and raw cut fruits/salads during the monsoon.
Wash hands thoroughly before eating or preparing food.
Get vaccinated, especially if you belong to high-risk groups.
What Health Experts Say
Health experts warn that Hepatitis A, a highly contagious liver infection, is preventable but can cause serious illness if ignored. It spreads through contaminated food, water, and poor hygiene, with children often acting as silent carriers.
Experts believe that most people recover fully, but it can cause severe complications, especially in older adults and those with underlying liver issues.
With spike in Hepatitis A cases, doctors are emphasizing that early diagnosis and rest can help recovery, while prevention remains the strongest protection.
