Key facts
- Hepatitis E is a liver disease caused by infection with a virus known as hepatitis E virus (HEV).
- Hepatitis E is dangerous when it affects pregnant women
How is Hepatitis E Transmitted
- The hepatitis E virus (HEV) is transmitted through ingestion of contaminated food and water or through direct contact with an infectious person.
- Hepatitis E can also transmitted through ingestion of undercooked meat from infected animals, such as pigs or deer.
What are the symptoms and signs of Hepatitis E?
You might not have any. If you do have symptoms, they may start anywhere from 2 to 6 weeks after your infection. They may include:
- Mild fever
- Malaise
- Loss of appetite
- Abdominal pain
- Dark coloured urine
- Light coloured stool
- Skin rash or itching
- Joint pain
- Jaundice (yellow color in the skin or the eyes)
How is Hepatitis E treated?
There is no specific treatment to Hepatitis E.
Following steps can help ease the symptoms:
- Rest
- Eat healthy foods
- Drink lots of water
- Avoid alcohol