Can Drinking Water from Unknown Containers Lead to Hepatitis?

Can drinking water from an unknown source accidentally lead to hepatitis?

Recently, I discovered that the water I was drinking at home was filled by my father from an external water dispenser, and I realized that the bottles he used were all plastic bottles picked up from the roadside.
(My father never informed me and filled them secretly, so I had been drinking from them for a while.) This situation has caused me a lot of anxiety because using scavenged bottles to store water feels very unsanitary to me.
My father claims that he washed the bottles inside and out with soap and clean water, so they are clean, but I have no way to verify that.
Since I had a sore in my mouth while drinking the water, I am concerned about the possibility of contracting any diseases, such as hepatitis, from these bottles.
I have not experienced any physical discomfort during this time, but I have been feeling very anxious and am unsure whether I should undergo any tests or if I am just overthinking this...
(Also, I want to thank all the doctors here for their hard work and dedication; I appreciate you.)

KK, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/08/07

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hepatitis A is transmitted through food, but there are almost no cases of endemic Hepatitis A in Taiwan; most cases are imported from abroad.
It is important to pay attention to food hygiene.

Reply Date: 2020/08/07

More Info

Drinking water from unknown or potentially contaminated containers can indeed raise concerns about health risks, including the transmission of infectious diseases such as hepatitis. However, it is important to understand the specific transmission routes of different types of hepatitis and the likelihood of contracting these infections from the scenario you described.

Hepatitis A is primarily transmitted through the fecal-oral route, often via contaminated food or water. In many regions, including Taiwan, the incidence of hepatitis A is relatively low, and most cases are linked to travel to areas where the virus is more prevalent. If your father washed the bottles thoroughly with soap and water, the risk of hepatitis A transmission from the bottles themselves is minimal, especially if the water source is known to be safe.

Hepatitis B and C, on the other hand, are primarily transmitted through blood and bodily fluids. Hepatitis B can also be transmitted through sexual contact and sharing needles. The risk of contracting hepatitis B or C from drinking water that may have been in contact with contaminated surfaces or containers is extremely low. The virus does not survive long outside the human body, and the likelihood of transmission through saliva or contaminated water is very low unless there are open wounds or mucous membranes involved.

In your case, since you mentioned having a sore in your mouth while drinking from the potentially contaminated bottles, it is understandable to feel anxious about the possibility of infection. However, the transmission of hepatitis B or C through saliva in a drinking container is not a common route of infection. The presence of the virus in saliva is generally low, and the risk of infection would require a significant viral load and direct exposure to an open wound.

If you are feeling anxious about your health, it may be beneficial to consult a healthcare professional for peace of mind. They can provide guidance on whether any testing is necessary based on your specific circumstances. If you have not experienced any symptoms such as jaundice, fatigue, or abdominal pain, the likelihood of having contracted hepatitis is low.

In summary, while it is always wise to be cautious about the sources of drinking water, the specific scenario you described does not present a significant risk for hepatitis transmission. Maintaining good hygiene practices, such as using clean containers and ensuring that water sources are safe, is essential for preventing infections. If you continue to feel anxious, consider discussing your concerns with a healthcare provider who can offer reassurance and appropriate testing if needed.

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