Most common cause of epidemic of infective hepatitis is –
**Core Concept**
Infective hepatitis, also known as viral hepatitis, is an acute liver infection caused by viruses that primarily target liver cells. The most common cause of epidemic outbreaks of infective hepatitis is a specific viral agent that spreads through fecal-oral transmission and contaminated food and water.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is Hepatitis A virus (HAV). HAV is highly contagious and spreads through the fecal-oral route, often through contaminated food and water. This virus primarily affects the liver, leading to inflammation and liver cell damage. The virus is highly infectious and can cause outbreaks in areas with poor sanitation and hygiene. The incubation period of HAV is usually 15-50 days, and symptoms can range from mild to severe, including fever, jaundice, and liver dysfunction.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option A:** Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a common cause of chronic hepatitis and liver cirrhosis but is not typically associated with epidemic outbreaks of infective hepatitis.
* **Option B:** Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a major cause of chronic liver disease and liver cancer, but it is not typically transmitted through fecal-oral routes and does not cause epidemic outbreaks.
* **Option C:** Hepatitis E virus (HEV) can cause outbreaks of acute hepatitis, particularly in areas with poor sanitation and hygiene, but it is not as common as HAV in causing epidemics.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
HAV is highly contagious and can be prevented through proper hand hygiene, safe food and water handling, and vaccination. The HAV vaccine is recommended for individuals traveling to areas with high HAV prevalence, such as developing countries, and for individuals with certain risk factors, such as men who have sex with men.
**Correct Answer: A. Hepatitis A virus.**