Understanding Hepatitis E
Hepatitis E is a liver infection commonly associated with drinking water contaminated by the virus. Access to safe water, proper sanitation, good hygiene and reliable health information can help communities reduce the risk of infection.
Prevention begins with safe water and sanitation.
Hepatitis E outbreaks can occur where water and sanitation systems are inadequate. Protecting drinking water, washing hands with soap and improving sanitation are important steps in reducing transmission.
What Is Hepatitis E?
Hepatitis E is caused by the hepatitis E virus (HEV). It usually causes an acute, short-term infection, although serious illness can occur in some people. In rare cases, infection may become chronic in people with weakened immune systems.
How does it affect the liver?
The virus causes inflammation of the liver and may lead to symptoms such as tiredness, nausea, abdominal discomfort and jaundice. Many people recover completely, but the severity of illness varies.
Hepatitis E is especially important to recognise during pregnancy, when infection can cause severe illness and may be life-threatening. Anyone who is pregnant and suspects hepatitis E should seek prompt medical care.
In many settings, hepatitis E spreads through water contaminated with human waste. Protecting water sources and ensuring safe drinking water can help prevent outbreaks.
Hepatitis E can be particularly dangerous during pregnancy. Prompt assessment by a qualified healthcare professional is important if infection is suspected.
Symptoms of Hepatitis E
Symptoms often appear several weeks after exposure. Some infected people have no noticeable symptoms, while others may become seriously ill.
Fatigue
Feeling unusually tired, weak or generally unwell.
Nausea
Nausea, vomiting, reduced appetite or discomfort in the abdomen.
Jaundice
Yellowing of the skin or eyes, sometimes with dark urine or pale stools.
Fever
Fever or general discomfort, sometimes accompanied by abdominal pain.
Seek medical assessment if you develop jaundice or persistent symptoms after possible exposure to contaminated water. Pregnant people with suspected hepatitis E should seek prompt medical care. Confusion, severe abdominal pain, bleeding or other severe symptoms require urgent attention.
How Is Hepatitis E Transmitted?
Hepatitis E is most commonly transmitted through the faecal–oral route, particularly when drinking water or food becomes contaminated with infected human or animal waste. The main routes can vary by region.
Contaminated Water
Drinking water contaminated with infected waste is a major route of transmission in many outbreaks.
Unsafe Sanitation
Poor sanitation and unsafe disposal of waste can contaminate water sources and the surrounding environment.
Contaminated Food
Some infections occur through food, including undercooked meat from infected animals in certain regions.
Limited Hygiene
Inadequate handwashing and unsafe food handling can increase the risk of infection.
Use safe drinking water, wash hands with soap, handle food hygienically and cook meat thoroughly. During an outbreak, follow guidance from local public health authorities.
Prevention and Treatment
Safe water, sanitation and hygiene are central to preventing hepatitis E. Most people recover with appropriate supportive care, but some people need close medical monitoring.
Ways to reduce the risk
Drink water from a safe source. If water safety is uncertain, follow local public health advice on treating or boiling water. Wash hands with soap after using the toilet and before preparing or eating food.
Keep drinking water protected from waste, use safe sanitation facilities, wash fruit and vegetables with safe water, and cook meat thoroughly. During outbreaks, follow instructions from health authorities.
Testing and treatment
A healthcare professional can assess symptoms and order blood tests when hepatitis E is suspected. Treatment for most acute infections focuses on supportive care, rest, adequate fluids and clinical monitoring as needed.
People with severe symptoms, existing liver disease, weakened immune systems or pregnancy may require closer medical assessment. Do not assume symptoms will resolve safely without advice from a healthcare professional.
Avoid self-medicating, particularly during pregnancy or if you have liver disease. A qualified healthcare professional can advise on appropriate care based on your circumstances.
Safe Water. Healthy Communities.
Preventing hepatitis E requires both individual action and community investment in safe drinking water, sanitation, hygiene education and effective outbreak response.
Prevention Starts With Awareness
Reliable information, safe water and good hygiene can help protect families and communities. Share what you learn and encourage people to seek medical care when needed.
This page provides general health information and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.