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Hepatitis E treatment
Last reviewed: 04.07.2025
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Treatment of hepatitis E involves prescribing a range of treatment measures, as with other viral hepatitis.
Diet and regimen for hepatitis E
Hospitalization is mandatory. Bed rest is maintained until the symptoms of intoxication disappear and a clear tendency toward normalization of liver function test indicators appears. Diet table 5 and 5A is recommended. The diet is gentle, but age-appropriate in terms of protein, fat, and carbohydrate content, enriched with vitamins. Plenty of fluids are given, including alkaline mineral waters and 5% glucose solution.
Drug treatment of hepatitis E
In severe forms of the disease with pronounced intoxication, detoxification therapy is necessary: a glucose-potassium mixture is prescribed, rheopolyglucin is administered to correct the microcirculatory bed. Glucocorticoids are prescribed for severe and malignant forms based on prednisolone in a daily dose of 2-5 mg per 1 kg of body weight. The use of proteolysis inhibitors is indicated. Hemorrhagic syndrome is relieved by prescribing vikasol and askorutin. Antibiotics are prescribed only if concomitant bacterial diseases occur.
In case of development of viral hepatitis E in pregnant women, artificial termination of pregnancy is not indicated. Shortening of the period of labor and its pain relief are recommended.
Discharge from hospital
Discharge from the hospital is carried out as with hepatitis A. Convalescents are subject to dispensary observation until all clinical and biochemical indicators are completely normalized - usually within 3-6 months. Schoolchildren are exempted from sports for a period of 6 months to 1 year, depending on their condition and well-being. Gentle physical activity is allowed immediately after the acute period. Preventive vaccinations can be allowed 1-3 months after discharge from the hospital. However, this issue requires additional study.
[ Prevention of hepatitis E
In case of hepatitis E, an emergency notification is always sent to the SES. Patients are isolated for at least 30 days from the onset of the disease. In children's institutions, after the isolation of patients, final disinfection is carried out. A group where a patient with hepatitis E is found is quarantined for 45 days from the day of the patient's isolation. Children in this group are subject to regular medical supervision until the end of the quarantine period.
At present, a vaccine against hepatitis E suitable for practical use has not been created. However, intensive work is being carried out in this direction. In particular, an experimental genetically engineered vaccine has been created, intended for administration to the military of Nepal, a region hyperendemic for hepatitis E.