Even as Hepatitis B remains the more dominant form of viral hepatitis across most parts of India, the Northeast region is showing a starkly different trend, with Hepatitis C cases rising at an alarming rate. Manipur, in particular, has reported more than 900 active cases of Hepatitis C, spotlighting an urgent public health concern in the region.
This regional health disparity was highlighted during the State-Level observance of World Hepatitis Day 2025 held at Hotel Imphal under the theme “Let’s Break It Down.” The event was organised jointly by the State Health Society, under the National Health Mission (NHM), and the Directorate of Health Services, Manipur.
Dr. R.K. Rosie, State Nodal Officer of the National Viral Hepatitis Control Program, shared that since the program’s launch in 2019, over 7,000 Hepatitis C cases have been recorded in the state, with nearly a thousand still active. In contrast, Hepatitis B continues to dominate the national hepatitis burden.
Highlighting the difference, Dr. Rosie said, “While the rest of India is witnessing more Hepatitis B infections, the Northeast, especially Manipur, is facing a serious Hepatitis C challenge.”
Under the state’s intensified testing program, nearly three lakh people in Manipur have been screened for both Hepatitis B and C. Dr. Rosie informed that free vaccinations for Hepatitis B are available at all district hospitals, and more than 1,000 patients are currently receiving treatment. She also emphasized the need to protect high-risk groups, such as injecting drug users, transgender individuals, and migrants, who are more vulnerable to viral hepatitis infections.
“Curing Hepatitis C is possible with early detection, while Hepatitis B demands lifelong treatment,” she noted. “We need to increase awareness and ensure that people come forward for testing and treatment.”
Marking the observance, Director of Health Services Dr. Chambo Gonmei flagged off an awareness rally aimed at educating the public about the importance of early detection and preventive care. He also called for stronger community engagement in fighting the disease.
To recognise efforts under the hepatitis control initiative, several institutions and districts were awarded for outstanding contributions. RIMS and JNIMS received certificates for efficient management of Model Treatment Centres, while Thoubal district was honoured for best screening and testing, Imphal West for treatment services, and Churachandpur for data reporting.
According to WHO estimates, over 350 million people globally are living with chronic Hepatitis B or C. India bears a significant share, with more than 40 million cases of Hepatitis B and an estimated 6 to 12 million of Hepatitis C. The data from Manipur underscores a growing need for region-specific strategies to combat the Hepatitis C surge in the Northeast.
Health officials reiterated that India’s goal of eliminating viral hepatitis by 2030, in line with global targets, would require proactive participation from both public health systems and communities alike.