First National Hepatitis E Symposium Report
Hepatitis E is a liver disease caused by the hepatitis E virus (HEV), a non-enveloped, positive-
sense, single-stranded RNA virus. Globally, an estimated 20 million HEV infections occur
annually, leading to over 3 million symptomatic cases and approximately 56,600 related deaths
(WHO).
Given the significant health burden of hepatitis E, particularly among pregnant women, we
emphasize the need for collaboration between researchers in Nepal and beyond to develop
effective strategies for prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.
Objectives of the Symposium
- Examine the epidemiology of HEV in Nepal
- Explore diagnostic methods and associated challenges
- Discuss clinical manifestations and complications of HEV infection
- Investigate the impact of HEV on pregnancy
- Identify preventive measures to reduce HEV infections
- Develop recommendations to inform national policies, strategies, and interventions for HEV prevention