What type of infections does Hepatitis E primarily cause?

Hepatitis E primarily results in acute infections. This virus is classified as a virus that causes viral hepatitis, typically leading to a self-limiting illness characterized by the sudden onset of symptoms such as jaundice, fatigue, and abdominal pain. The infection is most commonly transmitted through the fecal-oral route, often linked to contaminated water sources.

Acute infections from Hepatitis E can be more severe in certain populations, but the hallmark of Hepatitis E is that it does not establish chronic infections like some other hepatitis viruses, such as Hepatitis B or C. Chronic infections are characterized by a persistent viral presence in the body that lasts for six months or more, which is not a feature of Hepatitis E.

While the virus can be present and cause illness, individuals typically recover completely without long-term consequences. Therefore, the focus on acute infections reflects the nature of the disease pattern seen in clinical practice.