Hepatitis E — The Silent Liver Infection Linked to Contaminated Water
Dr. Chetan Kalal — Maharashtra’s First DM Hepatologist Explains Why Liver Care is Crucial in India’s Monsoon Season
What is Hepatitis E?
Hepatitis E is a viral infection of the liver caused by the Hepatitis E Virus (HEV).
In India, Hepatitis E is often called the “Waterborne Jaundice” because it commonly spreads through contaminated drinking water — especially during the monsoon season.
Dr. Chetan Kalal’s Expert View:
"Hepatitis E is very common in India but often neglected. While many patients recover completely, it can be dangerous in pregnant women or people with existing liver disease."
How Does Hepatitis E Spread?
Drinking contaminated or unfiltered water
Poor sanitation
Eating unwashed fruits or vegetables
Flood-affected or rural areas with poor hygiene
Symptoms of Hepatitis E:
High-grade fever
Nausea, vomiting
Weakness, fatigue
Yellow skin and eyes (Jaundice)
Loss of appetite
Dark-colored urine
Abdominal discomfort
Special Warning from Dr. Chetan Kalal:
"Pregnant women infected with Hepatitis E are at very high risk of severe liver damage or complications. They need immediate liver specialist care."
Who is at Risk of Hepatitis E?
People living in rural or flood-affected areas
Those drinking untreated or borewell water
Pregnant women (especially 3rd trimester)
Patients with cirrhosis or weak liver
Dr. Chetan Kalal’s Liver Health Advice to Prevent Hepatitis E:
1. Water Safety:
Drink only boiled or RO purified water
Avoid ice or juices from unhygienic places
Carry clean water while travelling
2. Hygiene Practices:
Wash fruits and vegetables properly
Maintain kitchen hygiene
Avoid raw or undercooked street food
3. Early Consultation:
"If jaundice or fever develops — don’t delay — meet a liver specialist early," emphasizes Dr. Kalal.
Can Hepatitis E Cause Complications?
"While many people recover from Hepatitis E in 2-6 weeks, complications can occur — especially in pregnancy, elderly patients, or those with pre-existing liver disease."
Possible Complications:
Acute Liver Failure
Pre-term labor in pregnancy
Life-threatening liver injury in cirrhosis
Keywords :
Hepatitis E Specialist Mumbai | Waterborne Hepatitis Treatment | Hepatitis E in Pregnancy | Jaundice Treatment Mumbai | Dr. Chetan Kalal Liver Expert | First DM Hepatologist of Maharashtra | Liver Care in Monsoon
Dr. Chetan Kalal’s Message:
"Hepatitis E is a classic example of how safe water and hygiene protect not just health — but life."
"In Mumbai and across India — monsoon-related liver infections are preventable with awareness, clean water, and early treatment."
Book an Appointment for Liver Health Consultation
With Dr. Chetan Kalal
Mumbai’s Leading Liver Specialist
First DM Hepatologist of Maharashtra
