Frequently Asked Questions
HEPATITIS E 

What is HEPATITIS E?
Hepatitis E causes inflammation of the liver. It is rare in the United States and there 
are no known long-term chronic effects.

What are the symptoms of Hepatitis E?
The symptoms of Hepatitis E include fatigue, poor appetite, fever, vomiting and 
occasionally joint pain.  Urine may become darker in color, and then jaundice (a 
yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes) may appear. Some individuals may 
experience few or no symptoms. Symptoms usually appear 15 to 60 days after 
exposure, but usually within 40 days.

Who is at risk for Hepatitis E?
Individuals most at risk for Hepatitis E infection are people who travel to or spend time 
in developing countries.

How is Hepatitis E spread?
Hepatitis E is transmitted through the fecal-oral route. This means that you get the 
infection by eating or drinking something that has been contaminated with feces.  
Outbreaks have been associated with contaminated water supplies in other countries.

Is there a vaccine available for Hepatitis E?
No, at the present time there is no vaccine available for Hepatitis E.

How can Hepatitis E be prevented?
The best way to prevent Hepatitis E is to avoid drinking or using potentially 
contaminated water.



24/7 Emergency Contact Number: 1-888-295-5156
Revised 6/2011