Overview
Hepatitis E is a liver infection spread through contaminated water, and it causes outbreaks of jaundice in India, especially during the monsoon when water supplies get polluted. In most people it causes a self-limiting bout of jaundice that clears with rest. Its special danger is in pregnancy, where it can become severe and even life-threatening, so any pregnant woman with jaundice needs urgent care. Clean drinking water and good hygiene are the best protection.
Symptoms
- Tiredness and loss of appetite
- Nausea and discomfort over the liver
- Yellowing of the skin and eyes
- Dark urine and pale stools
- Mild fever
When to see a doctor
See a doctor for yellow eyes or dark urine, and urgently if you are pregnant, or if there is vomiting, drowsiness or confusion.
Emergency — call 108 or go to the nearest hospital
- Jaundice with confusion, drowsiness or persistent vomiting, or jaundice in pregnancy — seek hospital care immediately
Causes
The hepatitis E virus, spread through drinking water contaminated with human waste, common in floods and poor sanitation.