Hepatitis A, B and C in Sri Lanka
Viral hepatitis remains a public health concern in Sri Lanka, with hepatitis A, B, and C affecting various populations. This guide explains each type, how they spread, key symptoms, prevention strategies, and current care options.
Hepatitis A: Acute, Food- and Water‑borne Infection
Caused by HAV, transmitted via the faeco‑oral route—usually through contaminated food, water, or person-to-person contact.
Seroprevalence studies show that approximately 80.7% of people in the Gampaha district have anti‑HAV IgG antibodies, indicating past exposure or immunity .
A study by K. D. S. T. Abeywardana and colleagues reported a significant rise in acute HAV cases in Central Sri Lanka during the COVID‑19 period—from 4.4% positive pre-pandemic to 10.2% during the pandemic, notably in Badulla district .
Symptoms include fever, fatigue, nausea, jaundice, dark urine; more common in adults, whereas children often remain asymptomatic.
There's no chronic infection—most recover fully with supportive care.
Hepatitis B: A Lifelong Viral Infection
Caused by HBV, transmitted through blood, sexual contact, or perinatal routes.
Chronic infection can lead to cirrhosis, liver cancer, or liver failure.
Sri Lanka includes HBV vaccine in the national childhood immunization programme, beginning at birth and followed by routine doses.
Diagnosis requires testing for HBsAg, anti-HBs, and HBV DNA levels.
Treatment options include nucleos(t)ide analogues and interferon for eligible chronic cases.
Hepatitis C: Silent but Dangerous
Caused by HCV, primarily spread through unsafe injections, transfusions, or mixing of sharp instruments.
Often becomes chronic and asymptomatic until liver damage occurs.
Available diagnostics include anti-HCV antibody and HCV RNA PCR testing.
Direct-acting antiviral (DAA) therapies offer cure rates above 95%, and are included in Sri Lanka’s national elimination strategy .
Vaccination & Prevention in Sri Lanka
Hepatitis A vaccine is available in private settings or during outbreaks in high-risk areas.
Hepatitis B vaccine is part of the national immunization schedule (birth dose + routine infant doses).
Hepatitis C prevention focuses on safe injection practices, ensuring screened blood transfusions, and awareness of risk exposures.
Local Context & Public Health Insights
In Sri Lanka, HAV incidence peaked during the COVID-19 pandemic, especially in Badulla district, likely due to shifted public health priorities and weakened outbreak surveillance systems .
Risk factors for HAV infection in Gampaha include urban living, low income, poor water and sanitation practices, and low awareness of hepatitis .
National efforts align with the Viral Hepatitis Strategic Plan 2023–2030, aiming to reduce hepatitis-related morbidity and achieve elimination targets .
When to Seek Medical Help
Hepatitis A: Persistent high fever, severe jaundice, vomiting, or confusion.
Hepatitis B/C: Routine screening if exposed, abnormal liver tests, fatigue, abdominal pain, or jaundice.
Early detection and appropriate referral improve outcomes—visit virology.lk or your healthcare provider for advice.
Conclusion
Understanding hepatitis A, B, and C in Sri Lanka empowers individuals to take preventive action, seek timely care, and support elimination strategies. With vaccination, safe practices, and public awareness, these infections can increasingly be controlled. Trust virology.lk for reliable local insights and resources.