How To Prevent And Manage Hepatitis E

Hepatitis E is a severe liver disease caused by the hepatitis E virus (HEV). Hepatitis E virus is among the five known hepatitis viruses that cause various health problems to humans, including liver failure. The HEV virus tends to be similar to hepatitis A since it is not chronic and it eventually leaves your system. While acute cases of hepatitis E infection are rare in the United States, hepatitis E is highly prevalent in developing nations in the Middle East, Central and Southeast Asia, Central America, and Africa where it causes many deaths. A report released by the World Health Organization indicated an estimated twenty million hepatitis E infections are occurring across the world every year. In 2015, the World Health Organization reported the virus resulted in the death of about forty-four thousand individuals across the world.

Hepatitis E infection occurs when an individual ingests food and drinks contaminated by the stool of an infected person, which is common in areas with poor sanitation. In some cases, natural disasters have led to the spread of hepatitis E. Heavy rainfall can cause sewers to overflow where they mix with drinking water leading to contamination. While there is no Food And Drug Administration approved vaccine to help in preventing hepatitis E infections, there are many ways that can help in managing and minimizing the risk of infection.

Consume Healthy Food

Individuals diagnosed with hepatitis E need to adopt a healthy lifestyle to minimize the risk of liver damage. The best way individuals can guard their liver is by ensuring they consume healthy food. Generally, there is no special diet for hepatitis E patients. A healthy diet includes whole grains, lean protein, lots of fruits and vegetables, low-fat dairy products, and healthy fats such as those found in avocados, nuts, and olive oil.

Since hepatitis E can significantly affect the functioning of the liver, patients should make sure they protect it from any condition or foods that would increase the chances of damage. Wash all the fruits, meats, and vegetables to remove viruses, bacteria, and potentially harmful residues. Also, clean all the food preparation surfaces to prevent cross contamination.

Get to know more ways in which individuals can prevent and manage hepatitis E.