Hepatitis E outbreaks in northeastern Nigeria

Two outbreaks of hepatitis E have been reported by health authorities in Borno State. The outbreak in the town of Damasak in the Mobbar Local Government Area (LGA) involves 12 patients, while the outbreak in the Ngala LGA include 41 suspected cases.

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.