General information only. This Parent Resource summarizes WHO information and does not diagnose hepatitis E.

What is hepatitis E?

WHO describes hepatitis E as inflammation of the liver caused by infection with hepatitis E virus.

How does the virus commonly spread?

WHO states that hepatitis E is transmitted by the fecal–oral route, mainly through contaminated water.

How can infection appear in children?

WHO notes that in areas where hepatitis E is common, infection does occur in children but may go undiagnosed because they often have no symptoms or only mild illness without jaundice.

Can symptoms distinguish hepatitis E from other illnesses?

No. WHO notes that hepatitis E cannot be distinguished clinically from other forms of acute viral hepatitis solely from symptoms.

References

  1. World Health Organization. Hepatitis E, 28 July 2026. Source reviewed 4 September 2026.