How is Hepatitis E transmitted?

• A. Fecal-oral
• B. Percutaneous
• C. Mucosal
• D. Body fluids

Answer: (A)

Hepatitis E is transmitted mainly through the fecal-oral route. This means infection occurs when people ingest water or food that has been contaminated with stool from an infected person, which is why outbreaks are common in areas with poor sanitation and unsafe drinking water. This route differentiates Hepatitis E from infections spread by percutaneous exposure (through the skin, such as needles), mucosal contact, or general body fluids (like blood or sexual fluids), which are typical pathways for other hepatitis viruses. In some regions, there can be foodborne spread from undercooked pork or game, but the core idea remains ingestion of contaminated material rather than blood or direct contact with infected fluids. Prevention focuses on clean water, good sanitation, hand hygiene, and safe food handling.