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Home » Articles >> Hepatitis E - How does it transmits, symptoms, causes. |
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Hepatitis E - How does it transmits, symptoms, causes.
Hepatitis refers to an inflammation of the liver. It is a disease that can be caused by a number of viruses such as Hepatitis A, B, C, D and E. This infection only spreads through the use of contaminated water. Hepatitis E is mainly common in developing countries like India, Africa, Mexico and North America, where sanitation is not well handled.
Hepatitis E causes acute Hepatitis. It occurs mainly by contamination of food and water, often after floods and heavy rains when water is contaminated and viruses can easily be transmitted. The liver is the body organ which is most vulnerable to Hepatitis E.
Hepatitis E has been recognized as a distinct human disease since 1980, caused by a single stranded, positive sense RNA virus. Antibodies to Hepatitis E (HEV) have been detected in other animal species as well.
The Hepatitis E virus causes acute epidemic viral hepatitis. Symptomatic HEV infection is most common in adults aged 15-40 years and is uncommon in children. The severity of an HEV infection is generally greater than the severity of an HAV infection. No evidence of chronic inflammation or of a healthy chronic carrier state has been detected, and no recurrence of Hepatitis E has been reported.
Transmission of HEV virus
The fecal-oral route transmits HEV virus, and it is a water-borne disease that infects people who consume contaminated food or drink supplies. Hepatitis E can also spread due to unhealthy sanitation and HEV infected feces. Person to person transmission is not common.
Symptoms
• Jaundice, yellow discoloration of the skin and eyes
• Dark urine and pale stools
• Anorexia and loss of appetite
• An enlarged and tender liver
• Abdominal pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fever
Causes of Hepatitis E
The use of contaminated food and drinks as well as infection from the oral-fecal route may lead to Hepatitis E. Unhygienic, unsanitary living conditions and infection of the liver can cause Hepatitis E.
Diagnosis
Stool samples may be taken and blood tests are carried out to elevate antibody levels that show the presence of HEV virus in the body.
Treatment
Hepatitis E is a viral infection and no antibiotic can help in its treatment. Generally, hospitalization is not required. However, if a patient shows signs of deterioration, medical treatment may be needed.
To Avoid Hepatitis E
• High quality hygiene is the best way to ensure safety from Hepatitis E
• Proper disposal of waste is necessary
• For travelers to highly endemic areas, hygiene maintenance is recommended
• Water should be boiled or purified before use
• Avoid using uncooked or raw vegetables and fruits
• Improvement of sanitary and hygiene conditions
• Eliminating the common source of infection by spraying medicines
• Determining the mode of transmission of virus
• Wash your hands thoroughly after using the bathroom and before eating food
Currently, no vaccines exist for the prevention of Hepatitis E. It is recommended that a balanced diet and plenty of liquids should be taken to avoid dehydration. |
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