Prevention of hepatitis E

Learn how hepatitis E can be prevented.

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• How can Hepatitis E infections be prevented?
• For more information

How can hepatitis E infections be prevented?

There is a vaccine for hepatitis E. It is widely used in China, but is not currently licensed in Canada or other industrialized countries.

How the body fights Hepatitis E is not well understood. However, if you have already had the virus, you will probably be immune to it for a long time.

You can also reduce the risk of infection by taking the following precautions.

• Wash your hands:
  • after using the washroom
  • after changing diapers
  • before preparing or eating food
• When travelling to developing countries, take precautions with food and water:
• drink water from a safe supply, such as commercially bottled, carbonated or boiled water
  • avoid ice cubes in drinks
  • eat only foods that are well-cooked
• Use safe food practices.
• Avoid preparing food or beverages for others if you have been diagnosed with hepatitis E.