NEWS – Indian Immunologicals Ltd (IIL) a wholly owned subsidiary of National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) launched India’s first indigenously developed Hepatitis A vaccine ‘Havisure’ in Hyderabad

HAVISURE VACCINE

• Two-dose vaccine — first dose administered at above 12 months of age and the second at least six months after the first dose
• Recommended for children as part of the routine immunisation as well as for individuals at risk of exposure or travel to the regions with high hepatitis A prevalence
• In addition to this people with occupational risk of infection and suffering from chronic liver diseases also require Hepatitis A vaccination

HEPATITIS A

• Contagious liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV)
• Unlike hepatitis B and C, which are caused by different viruses and can become chronic conditions, hepatitis A typically does not result in a chronic infection
• Poor hygiene practices, consumption of contaminated food or water, and close personal contact with an infected person can lead to the spread of the virus
• Symptoms can range from mild to severe and may include fatigue, fever, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dark urine, and jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes). In some cases, especially in children, the infection may be asymptomatic
• There is no specific antiviral treatment for hepatitis A. Treatment primarily involves supportive care, including rest, adequate nutrition, and hydration. Most people recover fully without long-term liver damage