Types of Viral Hepatitis: Hepatitis E
Hepatitis E is caused by the hepatitis E virus. Similar to
hepatitis A, hepatitis E is spread through fecal-oral transmission. Most infections result from contamination of water supplies, such as after monsoon flooding. This type of hepatitis is not common in the United States.
Similar to hepatitis A, hepatitis E cannot cause a long-term liver infection, and, in most cases, symptoms are mild (
see Hepatitis E Symptoms). However, both pregnant women and their babies are at increased risk of dying if infected with hepatitis E. This risk seems to be greatest during the second and
third trimesters.
To prevent hepatitis E, be careful about drinking tap water and eating uncooked foods when traveling internationally (
see Hepatitis E Prevention).
Types of Viral Hepatitis: Hepatitis G
Hepatitis G is the most recently discovered type of
viral hepatitis. The hepatitis G virus is an RNA virus that is similar to the
hepatitis C virus. However, it does not seem to cause either acute or chronic hepatitis. Hepatitis research scientists will continue to study this new type of viral hepatitis to understand its causes and treatment options.
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