Chad declares hepatitis E epidemic

Health authorities have declared an epidemic of hepatitis E in the region of Salamat, south-eastern Chad. A total of 956 infected people have been reported, and 12 of them have died, including 4 pregnant women.

Advice

Hepatitis E virus generally causes an infection with mild symptoms or no symptoms at all. It usually resolves in 4-6 weeks with no special treatment. This virus is transmitted mostly in crowded populations with contaminated water supplies and a lack of sanitation. Pregnant women suffer disproportionately high mortality from hepatitis E. Travellers can reduce the risk of exposure by following strict water and food safety precautions.