Is a positive hepatitis E antibody test contagious?

In general, whether a positive hepatitis E antibody indicates infectivity depends on the specific circumstances. The detailed analysis is as follows:

If hepatitis E virus (HEV) IgM antibodies are positive, accompanied by symptoms such as fatigue, jaundice, nausea, and abnormal liver function, the individual is usually infectious. This situation typically represents the acute phase of infection, during which the virus is actively replicating and can be transmitted via the fecal-oral route. Isolation and protective measures are necessary to prevent viral spread to others.

If only HEV IgG antibodies are positive while IgM is negative, with no symptoms and normal liver function, the person is generally not infectious. A positive IgG usually indicates a past infection, during which the body has developed protective antibodies and cleared the virus.

It is important to maintain good dietary hygiene in daily life—avoid drinking untreated water and consuming undercooked food, especially shellfish and other seafood. Maintain regular作息 (daily routines), avoid excessive fatigue, eat a balanced diet to ensure adequate nutrition, and have regular follow-up tests of liver function to protect liver health.