Hepatitis E
Hepatitis E is a viral infection of the liver spread through drinking water contaminated with stool, often during floods or in crowded settlements. Most people recover fully within a few weeks. It can be very dangerous for pregnant women, especially in the last three months of pregnancy, when it can cause liver failure.
Symptoms
- Yellow eyes and skin
- Dark urine
- Tiredness and loss of appetite
- Nausea and vomiting
- Belly pain
- Mild fever
Causes
- Hepatitis E virus
- Drinking water contaminated with sewage
- Floods and broken water pipes
- Poor sanitation in crowded camps or settlements
- Undercooked meat in some cases
Prevention
- Drink boiled or treated water, especially after floods
- Wash hands with soap after the toilet and before eating
- Use a clean latrine and keep it away from water sources
- Cook meat well
- Pregnant women should take extra care with drinking water
Treatment
- Most people need no specific medicine; the liver heals by itself
- Rest and drink plenty of fluids
- Avoid alcohol and medicines or herbal remedies not advised by a doctor
- Pregnant women with jaundice need hospital care
- Do not start prescription medicines without a doctor
Common questions
Why is hepatitis E dangerous in pregnancy?
In late pregnancy, hepatitis E can cause sudden liver failure, which is dangerous for both mother and baby. A pregnant woman with yellow eyes or skin should go to hospital immediately.
How is hepatitis E different from hepatitis B?
Hepatitis E spreads through dirty water, like hepatitis A, and usually goes away by itself. Hepatitis B spreads through blood and can become a long-term infection.