EPIDEMIOLOGICAL PROFILE OF HOSPITALIZED VIRAL HEPATITIS CASES

ABSTRACT 153 cases of viral hepatitis admitted to a Services hospital during the period 1995-97 were analysed for various epidemiological variables. 54 (36%) cases were found to be Hbs Ag positive. Relative risk of developing hepatitis was found to be highest amongst the other ranks (OR). Three fourth of all cases had contracted the infection while being away from their units. Route of acquiring infection could not be found in 80% of cases. It is important to educate the troops on the danger, mode of transmission and preventive measures of the disease. An immunisation policy for all soldiers at the time of entry needs to be considered seriously.