Which hepatitis viruses are transmitted via the digestive tract?

Dec 03, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Gao Jun
Introduction
Hepatitis viruses that are transmitted via the digestive tract mainly include hepatitis A virus and hepatitis E virus. In some cases, hepatitis B virus may also be indirectly transmitted through contaminated food or water. To prevent gastrointestinal transmission of hepatitis viruses, it is important to develop the habit of washing hands before meals and after using the toilet, avoid drinking untreated water and consuming undercooked food—especially seafood and shellfish—and regularly disinfect eating utensils.

  Hepatitis viruses that primarily infect via the digestive tract include hepatitis A virus and hepatitis E virus. In some cases, hepatitis B virus may also be indirectly transmitted through contaminated food or water. Details are as follows:

  1. Hepatitis A virus

  This virus is mainly transmitted through contaminated food, water, or close personal contact. After entering the body, it replicates in liver cells and causes liver inflammation, commonly manifesting as fever, fatigue, jaundice, etc. Upon diagnosis, patients should rest in bed, maintain a light diet, and take medications such as Yinzhihuang oral liquid, compound glycyrrhizin tablets, and vitamin C tablets under medical guidance. Isolation measures should also be implemented to prevent spreading the infection to others.

  2. Hepatitis E virus

  Transmission routes are similar to those of hepatitis A virus. It is more commonly seen in young and middle-aged adults, and infections in pregnant women may lead to more severe illness. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, and liver area pain. Treatment focuses on symptomatic and supportive care. Medications such as reduced glutathione tablets, silybin capsules, and polyene phosphatidylcholine capsules should be used according to medical advice. Adequate nutrition should be ensured, and physical exertion should be avoided.

  3. Hepatitis B virus

  The main transmission routes are blood and bodily fluids. However, if tableware or food contaminated with the virus comes into contact with broken oral mucosa, infection may still occur. The virus can continuously damage liver cells. Antiviral treatment under medical supervision includes entecavir tablets, tenofovir disoproxil fumarate tablets, and adefovir dipivoxil tablets. Regular monitoring of viral load and liver function is necessary.

  To prevent hepatitis virus infection via the digestive tract, develop the habit of washing hands before meals and after using the toilet. Avoid drinking untreated water and consuming undercooked food, especially seafood and shellfish. Disinfect tableware regularly, and avoid sharing personal items such as toothbrushes and razors. High-risk individuals should receive hepatitis A and B vaccinations to reduce the risk of infection.