Hepatitis E

Hepatitis means inflammation of the liver. The most common causes of hepatitis are viral infections, such as Hepatitis E virus (HEV). HEV is a non-enveloped spherical RNA virus that is classified as a Hepevirus.

Hepatitis E was first recognised as a distinct human disease in the 1980s.

Image: CDC PHIL5605

HEV is transmitted by the faecal-oral route and is common in Asia, Africa and Central America, particularly where sanitation is poor. HEV usually produces mild disease but in rare cases it can prove fatal, particularly in pregnant women. It is a relatively uncommon cause of viral hepatitis in the United Kingdom.

Information leaflet for patients and Guidelines for health professionals