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Source-This post is based on the article “India’s first indigenously developed Hepatitis A vaccine launched in Hyderabad” published in “Deccan Herald” on 20th January 2024.
Why in the News?
Recently, Indian Immunologicals Ltd (IIL), a wholly owned subsidiary of the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB), has launched India’s first domestically developed Hepatitis A vaccine, named ‘Havisure.’
What is Havisure?
| Specifications | Details |
| About | It is India’s first indigenously developed vaccine for Hepatitis A. |
| Dosage | 1. It is a two-dose vaccine. 2. The first dose given to those above 12 months of age and the second dose is administered at least six months later. |
| Who is eligible for the vaccine? | 1. The vaccine is advised for routine immunization in children and individuals at risk due to exposure or travel to regions with high hepatitis A prevalence. 2. Additionally, individuals with occupational infection risks and those suffering from chronic liver diseases can also receive Hepatitis A vaccination. |
| Significance | This vaccine is expected to play a significant role in preventing Hepatitis A. Hepatitis A is a highly contagious liver infection transmitted through contaminated food or water. |
What is Hepatitis A?
1) It is a viral infection that primarily causes inflammation of the liver.
2) It can be an acute (short-term) infection or a chronic (long-term) infection.
3) Transmission– It is transmitted through the consumption of contaminated food or water or through close contact with an infected person.
4) Symptoms– fever, fatigue, nausea, abdominal pain, and jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes).
5) Treatment– As per WHO there is no specific treatment for hepatitis A. Recovery from symptoms following infection may be slow and can take several weeks or months.
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