Hepatitis E: Overview, Transmission, Symptoms, and Prevention

What is Hepatitis E?

Hepatitis E, also known as "Hep E" or "HEV", is a liver disease caused by the hepatitis E virus.

Prevalence and Impact

In recent years, Hepatitis E has become the most common cause of short-term or acute hepatitis in the UK, with most cases resulting in full recovery.

• However, in individuals with a suppressed immune system, Hepatitis E can lead to persistent infection and cirrhosis of the liver.

Transmission

The Hepatitis E virus is primarily transmitted through faecal-oral route, often due to:

• Consumption of undercooked pork or offal,
• Shellfish, wild boar, and venison.

Transmission can also occur through oral-anal contact, blood transfusions, and organ transplants.

Symptoms

After an incubation period of two to nine weeks, symptoms of Hepatitis E infection may include:

• Mild flu-like symptoms,
• Extreme tiredness,
• Dark or brown urine,
• Fever,
• Itching,
• Abdominal pain,
• Loss of appetite,
• Jaundice,
• Sickness,
• Joints and muscles ache, tingle, numb, or weak.

Severe illness can occur in patients with pre-existing liver conditions or during pregnancy, potentially requiring hospital admission.

Prevention and Hygiene

Practising good personal hygiene, especially around food and water, is crucial in preventing Hepatitis E, particularly when travelling to endemic areas.

• There is currently no vaccine against Hepatitis E, underscoring the importance of preventive measures.

For more information, visit the British Liver Trust website.