Abstract

Background and Aims: Hepatitis E virus is a major cause of outbreaks and sporadic cases of viral hepatitis in developing countries. Methods: Literature search using the Medline (1966 to July 2008), EMBASE/Excerpta Medica (1980 to July 2008), OVID (1966 to July 2008), Google Scholar (for Local websites; and medical journals), SID, websites of Iranian universities and IranMedex was done. Results: The prevalence of hepatitis E infection in Iranian general population is increasing significantly with age. The prevalence in Iran is less than Pakistan. Consumption of contaminated water is an important mean for the spread of this enteric transmissible disease. Pigs and animals have a low role in HEV infection in our region. Conclusions: Primary prevention of HEV infection is the cornerstone of HEV control in our region and purely depends upon the improvement of the sanitary conditions of the society, provision of sanitary water, proper disposal of waste, and avoidance of contamination of food.