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He Z, Liu D, Liu B, Zhang P, Wang X, Wang G, Huang Y, Chen J, Cai R. Prevalence of hepatitis E virus in swine in China: a systematic review with meta-analysis (2004-2023). Front Vet Sci 2025; 11:1472658. [PMID: 40084118 PMCID: PMC11905393 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2024.1472658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2024] [Accepted: 12/30/2024] [Indexed: 03/16/2025] Open
Abstract
Introduction Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a major cause of acute hepatitis in humans and recognized as a zoonotic pathogen, with swine serving as a primary reservoir. Despite substantial research, comprehensive analysis encompassing regional variations and pig growth stages within China, as well as the influence of recent biosecurity measures on HEV prevalence, remains limited. In this study, we aim to assess the prevalence and risk factors associated with swine HEV in China. Methods A thorough review of HEV infection studies was conducted using six databases: China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang, Wipro, Centre for Agriculture and Biosciences International, PubMed, and ScienceDirect, covering publications from January 1, 2004 to December 31, 2023. Eighty-seven studies investigating the seroprevalence of swine HEV IgG antibodies and HEV RNA detection rates were included. A rigorous meta-analysis and quality assessment followed. Results The combined seroprevalence of swine HEV IgG antibodies was 58.0% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 52.0-65.0). The seroprevalence from 2019 to 2023 was lower (27.4, 95% CI: 26.3-28.2) than that in other years. The seroprevalence was higher in sows (67.2, 95% CI: 55.8-78.7) than in suckling, nursery, and fattening pigs. The detection rate of HEV RNA was 13.0% (95% CI: 11.0-15.0), with fattening pigs showing a significantly higher positivity rate (16.9, 95% CI: 13.2-20.7) than sows and suckling pigs. HEV RNA detection was significantly lower in bile (8.3, 95% CI: 6.3-10.3) than in feces and liver. Discussion This study highlights the widespread presence of HEV in pig farms across China, with prevalence strongly linked to pig growth stage, study year, and sample type. The findings underscore the importance of pig growth stage, sample type, and recent biosecurity measures in controlling HEV prevalence, providing actionable insights for improving biosecurity practices in pig farms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenwen He
- Key Laboratory of Livestock Disease Prevention of Guangdong Province, Scientific Observation and Key Laboratory for Prevention and Control of Avian Influenza and Other Major Poultry Diseases, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Animal Health, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guangzhou, China
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou, China
- Dongguan Zhongtang Town Agricultural Technical Service Center, Dongguan, China
| | - Dingyu Liu
- Key Laboratory of Livestock Disease Prevention of Guangdong Province, Scientific Observation and Key Laboratory for Prevention and Control of Avian Influenza and Other Major Poultry Diseases, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Animal Health, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guangzhou, China
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Baoling Liu
- Key Laboratory of Livestock Disease Prevention of Guangdong Province, Scientific Observation and Key Laboratory for Prevention and Control of Avian Influenza and Other Major Poultry Diseases, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Animal Health, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Pian Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Livestock Disease Prevention of Guangdong Province, Scientific Observation and Key Laboratory for Prevention and Control of Avian Influenza and Other Major Poultry Diseases, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Animal Health, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaohu Wang
- Key Laboratory of Livestock Disease Prevention of Guangdong Province, Scientific Observation and Key Laboratory for Prevention and Control of Avian Influenza and Other Major Poultry Diseases, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Animal Health, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Gang Wang
- Key Laboratory of Livestock Disease Prevention of Guangdong Province, Scientific Observation and Key Laboratory for Prevention and Control of Avian Influenza and Other Major Poultry Diseases, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Animal Health, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuan Huang
- Key Laboratory of Livestock Disease Prevention of Guangdong Province, Scientific Observation and Key Laboratory for Prevention and Control of Avian Influenza and Other Major Poultry Diseases, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Animal Health, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jing Chen
- Key Laboratory of Livestock Disease Prevention of Guangdong Province, Scientific Observation and Key Laboratory for Prevention and Control of Avian Influenza and Other Major Poultry Diseases, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Animal Health, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Rujian Cai
- Key Laboratory of Livestock Disease Prevention of Guangdong Province, Scientific Observation and Key Laboratory for Prevention and Control of Avian Influenza and Other Major Poultry Diseases, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Animal Health, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guangzhou, China
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Gong G, Xin J, Lou Y, Qiong D, Dawa Z, Gesang Z, Suolang S. Cell Culture of a Swine Genotype 4 Hepatitis E Virus Strain. J Med Virol 2024; 96:e70031. [PMID: 39530175 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.70031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2024] [Revised: 10/12/2024] [Accepted: 10/17/2024] [Indexed: 11/16/2024]
Abstract
HEV infection has become a global health concern. The study of HEV pathogenicity has been hindered by the lack of a suitable in vitro culture system. In the present research, we systematic demonstration of efficient replication of swine GT4 HEV in A549 cells, Huh-7 cells, and HepG2/C3A cell lines. The results of the immunofluorescence assay and immunofluorescence confocal assay showed that swine GT4 HEV is efficiently replicated in three cell lines at 72 h postinoculation. Meanwhile, we also detected the virus titer quantified were increased at 2-, 6,- and 11-days postinoculation. Moreover, we successfully observed HEV virus particles in the cell suspension at 6 days postinoculation. This finding holds significance for advancing in vitro HEV studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ga Gong
- Animal Science College, Xizang Agriculture and Animal Husbandry University, Nyingchi, China
| | - Jiaojiao Xin
- Animal Science College, Xizang Agriculture and Animal Husbandry University, Nyingchi, China
| | - Yongzhi Lou
- Animal Science College, Xizang Agriculture and Animal Husbandry University, Nyingchi, China
| | - Da Qiong
- Animal Science College, Xizang Agriculture and Animal Husbandry University, Nyingchi, China
| | | | - Zhuoma Gesang
- Animal Disease Prevention and Control Center of Xizang Autonomous Region, Lhasa, China
| | - Sizhu Suolang
- Animal Science College, Xizang Agriculture and Animal Husbandry University, Nyingchi, China
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Guerrero-Vadillo M, Peñuelas M, Carmona R, León-Gómez I, Varela C. Increasing trends in hepatitis E hospitalisations in Spain, 1997 to 2019. Euro Surveill 2024; 29:2400118. [PMID: 39450516 PMCID: PMC11513759 DOI: 10.2807/1560-7917.es.2024.29.43.2400118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 10/26/2024] Open
Abstract
BackgroundHepatitis E, a viral hepatitis caused mainly by the ingestion of raw or undercooked food, is not a notifiable disease in Spain.AimTo analyse the temporal trends, epidemiological characteristics and factors associated with severe disease from hepatitis E hospitalisations in Spain from 1997 to 2019.MethodsHospitalisation records were obtained from the Spanish National Hospital Discharge Database. Temporal trends and seasonality were analysed by Poisson regression in years 1997-2015 and 2016-19, given changes in hospital discharge databases. Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with severe disease.ResultsHepatitis E hospitalisation incidence increased from 0.22 cases per 1,000,000 inhabitants in 1997 to a maximum of 2.95 in 2018. Seasonality was observed during 2016-19 period, with more cases in the second and third quarters of the year. The incidence was higher in men vs women, and in the population aged over 40 years. Factors independently associated with death were age ≥ 50 years (adjusted odds ratio (aOR): 2.43), chronic liver disease (aOR: 4.29), HIV infection (aOR: 3.00) and hepatitis B/C (aOR: 2.11).ConclusionsHepatitis E hospitalisations have increased in Spain in recent years, being more severe in cases with older age, chronic hepatic diseases and HIV infection. A greater incidence in men over 40 years and a possible seasonality were observed. Further studies are needed to assess the seasonality, geographical distribution and impact of the disease to guide public health actions for prevention and control.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Guerrero-Vadillo
- CIBER de Epidemiología y Salud Pública, Instituto de Salud Carlos III (CIBERESP, ISCIII), Madrid, Spain
- Departamento de Enfermedades Transmisibles, Centro Nacional de Epidemiología (CNE), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Madrid, Spain
- Programa de Doctorado en Ciencias Biomédicas y Salud Pública, Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia (UNED), Madrid, Spain
| | - Marina Peñuelas
- CIBER de Epidemiología y Salud Pública, Instituto de Salud Carlos III (CIBERESP, ISCIII), Madrid, Spain
- Departamento de Enfermedades Transmisibles, Centro Nacional de Epidemiología (CNE), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Madrid, Spain
| | - Rocío Carmona
- Departamento de Enfermedades Transmisibles, Centro Nacional de Epidemiología (CNE), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Madrid, Spain
| | - Inmaculada León-Gómez
- CIBER de Epidemiología y Salud Pública, Instituto de Salud Carlos III (CIBERESP, ISCIII), Madrid, Spain
- Departamento de Enfermedades Transmisibles, Centro Nacional de Epidemiología (CNE), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Madrid, Spain
| | - Carmen Varela
- CIBER de Epidemiología y Salud Pública, Instituto de Salud Carlos III (CIBERESP, ISCIII), Madrid, Spain
- Departamento de Enfermedades Transmisibles, Centro Nacional de Epidemiología (CNE), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Madrid, Spain
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Castagna F, Liguori G, Lombardi R, Bava R, Costagliola A, Giordano A, Quintiliani M, Giacomini D, Albergo F, Gigliotti A, Lupia C, Ceniti C, Tilocca B, Palma E, Roncada P, Britti D. Hepatitis E and Potential Public Health Implications from a One-Health Perspective: Special Focus on the European Wild Boar ( Sus scrofa). Pathogens 2024; 13:840. [PMID: 39452712 PMCID: PMC11510200 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens13100840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2024] [Revised: 09/23/2024] [Accepted: 09/27/2024] [Indexed: 10/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The hepatitis E virus (HEV) has become increasingly important in recent years in terms of risk for public health, as the main causative agent of acute viral hepatitis. It is a foodborne disease transmitted to humans through the consumption of contaminated water or contaminated food. Human-to-human transmission is sporadic and is linked to transfusions or transplants. The main reservoirs of the hepatitis E virus are domestic pigs and wild boars, although, compared to pigs, wild boars represent a lesser source of risk since their population is smaller and the consumption of derived products is more limited. These peculiarities often make the role of the wild boar reservoir in the spread of the disease underestimated. As a public health problem that involves several animal species and humans, the management of the disease requires an interdisciplinary approach, and the concept of "One Health" must be addressed. In this direction, the present review intends to analyze viral hepatitis E, with a particular focus on wild boar. For this purpose, literature data have been collected from different scientific search engines: PubMed, MEDLINE, and Google scholar, and several keywords such as "HEV epidemiology", "Extrahepatic manifestations of Hepatitis E", and "HEV infection control measures", among others, have been used. In the first part, the manuscript provides general information on the disease, such as epidemiology, transmission methods, clinical manifestations and implications on public health. In the second part, it addresses in more detail the role of wild boar as a reservoir and the implications related to the virus epidemiology. The document will be useful to all those who intend to analyze this infectious disease from a "One-Health" perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Castagna
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (F.C.); (B.T.); (E.P.); (P.R.); (D.B.)
- Mediterranean Ethnobotanical Conservatory, 88054 Catanzaro, Italy;
| | - Giovanna Liguori
- Local Health Authority, ASL, 71121 Foggia, Italy; (G.L.); (R.L.)
| | - Renato Lombardi
- Local Health Authority, ASL, 71121 Foggia, Italy; (G.L.); (R.L.)
| | - Roberto Bava
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (F.C.); (B.T.); (E.P.); (P.R.); (D.B.)
| | - Anna Costagliola
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, University of Napoli Federico II, 80100 Naples, Italy;
| | - Antonio Giordano
- Sbarro Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Center for Biotechnology, Department of Biology, College of Science and Technology, Temple University, 1900 N 12th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19122, USA;
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, 10100 Siena, Italy
| | | | | | - Francesco Albergo
- Department of Management, Finance and Technology, University LUM Giuseppe Degennaro, 70100 Casamassima, Italy;
| | - Andrea Gigliotti
- Interregional Park of Sasso Simone and Simoncello, 61021 Carpegna, Italy;
| | - Carmine Lupia
- Mediterranean Ethnobotanical Conservatory, 88054 Catanzaro, Italy;
| | - Carlotta Ceniti
- ASL Napoli 3 SUD, Department of Prevention, 80053 Castellammare di Stabia, Italy;
| | - Bruno Tilocca
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (F.C.); (B.T.); (E.P.); (P.R.); (D.B.)
| | - Ernesto Palma
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (F.C.); (B.T.); (E.P.); (P.R.); (D.B.)
| | - Paola Roncada
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (F.C.); (B.T.); (E.P.); (P.R.); (D.B.)
| | - Domenico Britti
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (F.C.); (B.T.); (E.P.); (P.R.); (D.B.)
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Zahmanova G, Takova K, Lukov GL, Andonov A. Hepatitis E Virus in Domestic Ruminants and Virus Excretion in Milk-A Potential Source of Zoonotic HEV Infection. Viruses 2024; 16:684. [PMID: 38793568 PMCID: PMC11126035 DOI: 10.3390/v16050684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2024] [Revised: 04/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The hepatitis E virus is a serious health concern worldwide, with 20 million cases each year. Growing numbers of autochthonous HEV infections in industrialized nations are brought on via the zoonotic transmission of HEV genotypes 3 and 4. Pigs and wild boars are the main animal reservoirs of HEV and play the primary role in HEV transmission. Consumption of raw or undercooked pork meat and close contact with infected animals are the most common causes of hepatitis E infection in industrialized countries. However, during the past few years, mounting data describing HEV distribution has led experts to believe that additional animals, particularly domestic ruminant species (cow, goat, sheep, deer, buffalo, and yak), may also play a role in the spreading of HEV. Up to now, there have not been enough studies focused on HEV infections associated with animal milk and the impact that they could have on the epidemiology of HEV. This critical analysis discusses the role of domestic ruminants in zoonotic HEV transmissions. More specifically, we focus on concerns related to milk safety, the role of mixed farming in cross-species HEV infections, and what potential consequences these may have on public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gergana Zahmanova
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of Plovdiv, 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
- Department of Technology Transfer and IP Management, Center of Plant Systems Biology and Biotechnology, 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | - Katerina Takova
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of Plovdiv, 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | - Georgi L. Lukov
- Faculty of Sciences, Brigham Young University–Hawaii, Laie, HI 96762, USA
| | - Anton Andonov
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2, Canada;
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Capai L, Masse S, Hozé N, Decarreaux D, Canarelli J, Simeoni MH, de Lamballerie X, Falchi A, Charrel R. Seroprevalence of anti-HEV IgG in children: very early exposure in young children in a hyperendemic region. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1293575. [PMID: 38026418 PMCID: PMC10680972 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1293575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and objectives Hepatitis E virus (HEV) can be considered an emerging zoonotic pathogen and is an important cause of acute viral hepatitis in high-income countries. Corsica has been identified as a hyperendemic region for HEV. We aimed to characterize the prevalence of IgG among children and estimate the annual force of infection of HEV. Methods From April 2020 to June 2021, we collected 856 "residual sera" in 13 medical biology laboratories. Sera were tested using the Wantaï HEV IgG assay. Data were weighted according to the distribution by sex and age of the real Corsican population. Serocatalytic models were applied to assess the annual force of infection of HEV. Results The weighted seroprevalence was 30.33% [27.15-34.0]. The seroprevalence was only associated with increasing age (7.25-40.52%; p < 0.001). The annual probability of infection was 5.4% for adults and children above 10-year-old and 2.2% for children under 10 yo. Conclusion Our study demonstrates that in the hyperendemic island of Corsica, (i) exposure of the population to HEV is homogeneous at the spatial level with no difference between genders; (ii) HEV exposure occurs from birth, resulting in 7.4% seropositivity at the age of 4 years; and (iii) super exposure is observed after the age of 9 years. Accordingly, specific studies should be conducted to determine the breadth of the situation identified in our study. The role of the environment and its contamination by domestic or wild swine excreta should be investigated using a One Health approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisandru Capai
- UR 7310, Université de Corse, Corte, France
- AG Junglen, Institute of Virology, University of Charité, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Nathanaël Hozé
- Mathematical Modelling of Infectious Diseases Unit, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | - Dorine Decarreaux
- UR 7310, Université de Corse, Corte, France
- Unité des Virus Émergents, Aix-Marseille University, Marseille, France
| | | | | | | | | | - Rémi Charrel
- Unité des Virus Émergents, Aix-Marseille University, Marseille, France
- Comité de Lutte contre les infections Nosocomiales, APHM HOPITAUX Universitaires de Marseille, Marseille, France
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Golkocheva-Markova E, Ismailova C, Kevorkyan A, Raycheva R, Zhelyazkova S, Kotsev S, Pishmisheva M, Rangelova V, Stoyanova A, Yoncheva V, Tenev T, Gladnishka T, Trifonova I, Christova I, Dimitrov R, Bruni R, Ciccaglione AR. Age and Gender Trends in the Prevalence of Markers for Hepatitis E Virus Exposure in the Heterogeneous Bulgarian Population. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:1345. [PMID: 37374127 PMCID: PMC10301971 DOI: 10.3390/life13061345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The prevalence of hepatitis E virus (HEV) in the Bulgarian population remains underestimated. The aim of the present study was to evaluate age and gender trends in HEV prevalence in the heterogeneous Bulgarian population. Stored serum samples from blood donors and different patient sub-populations-kidney recipients (KR), patients with Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS), Lyme disease (LD), patients with liver involvement and a clinical diagnosis other than viral hepatitis A and E (non-AE), hemodialysis (HD) and HIV-positive patients (HIV)-were retrospectively investigated for markers of past and recent/ongoing HEV infection. The estimated overall seroprevalence of past infection was 10.6%, ranging from 5.9% to 24.5% for the sub-populations evaluated, while the seroprevalence of recent/ongoing HEV infection was 7.5%, ranging from 2.1% to 20.4%. The analysis of the individual sub-populations showed a different prevalence with respect to sex. In regard to age, the cohort effect was preserved, as a multimodal pattern was observed only for the GBS sub-population. Molecular analysis revealed HEV 3f and 3e. The type of the population is one of the main factors on which the anti-HEV prevalence depends, highlighting the need for the development of guidelines related to the detection and diagnosis of HEV infection with regard to specific patient populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elitsa Golkocheva-Markova
- NRL Hepatitis Viruses, Department of Virology, National Center of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, 1504 Sofia, Bulgaria; (C.I.); (T.T.)
| | - Chiydem Ismailova
- NRL Hepatitis Viruses, Department of Virology, National Center of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, 1504 Sofia, Bulgaria; (C.I.); (T.T.)
| | - Ani Kevorkyan
- Department of Epidemiology and Disaster Medicine, Faculty of Public Health, Medical University, 4002 Plovdiv, Bulgaria; (A.K.)
| | - Ralitsa Raycheva
- Department of Social Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Public Health, Medical University, 4002 Plovdiv, Bulgaria;
| | - Sashka Zhelyazkova
- Clinic of Nervous Diseases, University Hospital “Alexandrovska”, Medical University, 1431 Sofia, Bulgaria;
| | - Stanislav Kotsev
- Department Infectious Diseases, Regional Hospital, 4400 Pazardzhik, Bulgaria; (S.K.); (M.P.)
| | - Maria Pishmisheva
- Department Infectious Diseases, Regional Hospital, 4400 Pazardzhik, Bulgaria; (S.K.); (M.P.)
| | - Vanya Rangelova
- Department of Epidemiology and Disaster Medicine, Faculty of Public Health, Medical University, 4002 Plovdiv, Bulgaria; (A.K.)
| | - Asya Stoyanova
- NRL Enteroviruses, Department of Virology, National Center of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, 1504 Sofia, Bulgaria;
| | - Viliana Yoncheva
- NRL Hepatitis Viruses, Department of Virology, National Center of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, 1504 Sofia, Bulgaria; (C.I.); (T.T.)
| | - Tencho Tenev
- NRL Hepatitis Viruses, Department of Virology, National Center of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, 1504 Sofia, Bulgaria; (C.I.); (T.T.)
| | - Teodora Gladnishka
- NRL of Vector-Borne Infections, Listeria and Leptospires, Department of Microbiology, National Center of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, 1504 Sofia, Bulgaria; (T.G.); (I.C.)
| | - Iva Trifonova
- NRL of Vector-Borne Infections, Listeria and Leptospires, Department of Microbiology, National Center of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, 1504 Sofia, Bulgaria; (T.G.); (I.C.)
| | - Iva Christova
- NRL of Vector-Borne Infections, Listeria and Leptospires, Department of Microbiology, National Center of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, 1504 Sofia, Bulgaria; (T.G.); (I.C.)
| | - Roumen Dimitrov
- Institute of Mathematics and Informatics, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 1000 Sofia, Bulgaria;
| | - Roberto Bruni
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy; (R.B.); (A.R.C.)
| | - Anna Rita Ciccaglione
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy; (R.B.); (A.R.C.)
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Kogias D, Skeva A, Smyrlis A, Mourvati E, Kantartzi K, Romanidou G, Kalientzidou M, Rekari V, Konstantinidou E, Kiorteve P, Paroglou I, Papadopoulos V, Konstantinidis T, Panopoulou M, Mimidis K. Hepatitis E Virus (HEV) Infection in Hemodialysis Patients: A Multicenter Epidemiological Cohort Study in North-Eastern Greece. Pathogens 2023; 12:667. [PMID: 37242337 PMCID: PMC10222133 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12050667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV), a common cause of viral hepatitis in developing countries, is mainly transmitted via the fecal-oral route, but also may be a prevalent hospital-transmitted agent among patients on regular hemodialysis due to parenteral transmission. Previous epidemiological studies among hemodialysis patients in Greece, using different diagnostic techniques, gave conflicting results. Τhe present study aimed to measure the exposure rate of hemodialysis patients of north-eastern Greece to HEV by estimating the overall seroprevalence, and to identify potential risk factors. Serum samples from all patients attending the hemodialysis centers of north-eastern Greece (n = 6) were tested for the presence of anti-HEV IgG antibodies using a modern and sensitive ELISA (Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay) technique (Wantai). In total, 42 out of 405 hemodialysis patients were positive for anti-HEV IgG (10.4%), while all samples were negative for HEV RNA when tested using nested RT-PCR. HEV seropositivity among hemodialysis patients was significantly associated with area of residence and contact with specific animals (pork, deer). No association was found with religion, gender distribution and hemodialysis duration. This study showed an increased seroprevalence of HEV among hemodialysis patients in Greece. Agricultural or livestock occupation and place of residence seem to be independent factors that increase the risk of HEV infection. In conclusion, HEV infection calls for the regular screening of hemodialysis patients regardless of the hemodialysis duration or clinical symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dionysios Kogias
- First Department of Internal Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, 68100 Alexandroupolis, Greece;
| | - Aikaterini Skeva
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Democritus University of Thrace, 68100 Alexandroupolis, Greece; (A.S.); (M.P.)
| | - Andreas Smyrlis
- Department of Nephrology, Democritus University of Thrace, 68100 Alexandroupolis, Greece; (A.S.); (E.M.); (K.K.)
| | - Efthymia Mourvati
- Department of Nephrology, Democritus University of Thrace, 68100 Alexandroupolis, Greece; (A.S.); (E.M.); (K.K.)
| | - Konstantinia Kantartzi
- Department of Nephrology, Democritus University of Thrace, 68100 Alexandroupolis, Greece; (A.S.); (E.M.); (K.K.)
| | - Gioulia Romanidou
- Nephrology Department, General Hospital “Sismanogleio”, 69100 Komotini, Greece;
| | - Maria Kalientzidou
- Department of Nephrology, General Hospital of Kavala, 65500 Kavala, Greece;
| | - Vasiliki Rekari
- Blood Transfusion Center, General Hospital of Xanthi, 67100 Xanthi, Greece;
| | | | - Parthena Kiorteve
- Nephrology Department, General Hospital of Drama, 66100 Drama, Greece;
| | - Ioannis Paroglou
- Nephrology Department, General Hospital of Didymoteicho, 68300 Didymoteicho, Greece;
| | | | - Theocharis Konstantinidis
- Blood Transfusion Center, University General Hospital of Alexandroupolis and Laboratory of Microbiology, Democritus University of Thrace, 68100 Alexandroupolis, Greece;
| | - Maria Panopoulou
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Democritus University of Thrace, 68100 Alexandroupolis, Greece; (A.S.); (M.P.)
| | - Konstantinos Mimidis
- First Department of Internal Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, 68100 Alexandroupolis, Greece;
- Laboratory for the Study of Gastrointestinal System and Liver, Democritus University of Thrace, 68100 Alexandroupolis, Greece
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9
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Geng Y, Shi T, Wang Y. Transmission of Hepatitis E Virus. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2023; 1417:73-92. [PMID: 37223860 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-99-1304-6_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Transmission of hepatitis E virus (HEV) occurs predominantly by the fecal-oral route. Large epidemics of hepatitis E in the developing countries of Asia and Africa are waterborne and spread through contaminated drinking water. The reservoir of HEV in developed countries is believed to be in animals with zoonotic transmission to humans, possibly through direct contact or the consumption of undercooked contaminated meat. And HEV transmission through blood transfusion, organ transplantation, and vertical transmission has been reported.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yansheng Geng
- Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety of Hebei Province, School of Public Health, Hebei University, Baoding, China
| | - Tengfei Shi
- Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety of Hebei Province, School of Public Health, Hebei University, Baoding, China
| | - Youchun Wang
- Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Science & Peking Union Medical College, Kunming, China.
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10
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Jelicic P, Ferenc T, Mrzljak A, Jemersic L, Janev-Holcer N, Milosevic M, Bogdanic M, Barbic L, Kolaric B, Stevanovic V, Vujica M, Jurekovic Z, Pavicic Saric J, Vilibic M, Vilibic-Cavlek T. Insights into hepatitis E virus epidemiology in Croatia. World J Gastroenterol 2022; 28:5494-5505. [PMID: 36312833 PMCID: PMC9611701 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v28.i37.5494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2022] [Revised: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is an emerging virus of global health concern. The seroprevalence rates differ greatly according to geographic region and population group. AIM To analyze the seroprevalence of HEV in exposed (animal-related professions) and nonexposed populations, as well as solid organ and hematopoietic stem cell transplant patients. METHODS Forestry workers (n = 93), hunters (n = 74), and veterinarians (n = 151) represented the exposed population. The general population (n = 126) and pregnant women (n = 118) constituted the control group. Transplant patients included liver transplant recipients (LTRs) (n = 83), kidney transplant recipients (KTRs) (n = 43), and hematopoietic stem cell transplant recipients (HSCRs) (n = 39). HEV immunoglobulin G antibodies were detected using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and confirmed by the immunoblot test. RESULTS The HEV seroprevalence significantly differed between groups: Veterinarians 15.2%, hunters 14.9%, forestry workers 6.5%, general population 7.1%, and pregnant women 1.7%. In transplant patients, the seropositivity was highest in LTRs (19.3%), while in KTRs and HSCRs, the seroprevalence was similar to the general population (6.9% and 5.1%, respectively). A significant increase in seropositivity with age was observed from 2.9% in individuals less than 30 years to 23.5% in those older than 60 years. Sociodemographic characteristics (sex, educational level, area of residence, and number of household members), eating habits (game meat, offal, and pork products consumption), and environmental and housing conditions (drinking water supply, type of water drainage/sewer, waste disposal, domestic animals) were not associated with HEV seropositivity. However, individuals who reported a pet ownership were more often seropositive compared to those who did not have pet animals (12.5% vs 7.0%). CONCLUSION The results of this study showed that individuals in professional contact with animals and LTRs are at higher risk for HEV infection. In addition, age is a significant risk factor for HEV seropositivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pavle Jelicic
- Department of Environmental Health, Croatian Institute of Public Health, Zagreb 10000, Croatia
| | - Thomas Ferenc
- Department of Radiology, Merkur University Hospital, Zagreb 10000, Croatia
| | - Anna Mrzljak
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital Center Zagreb, Zagreb 10000, Croatia
- School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb 10000, Croatia
| | - Lorena Jemersic
- Department of Virology, Croatian Veterinary Institute, Zagreb 10000, Croatia
| | - Natasa Janev-Holcer
- Department of Environmental Health, Croatian Institute of Public Health, Zagreb 10000, Croatia
- Department of Social Medicine and Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine University of Rijeka, Rijeka 51000, Croatia
| | - Milan Milosevic
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Andrija Stampar School of Public Health, Zagreb 10000, Croatia
| | - Maja Bogdanic
- Department of Virology, Croatian Institute of Public Health, Zagreb 10000, Croatia
| | - Ljubo Barbic
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases with Clinic, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine University of Zagreb, Zagreb 10000, Croatia
| | - Branko Kolaric
- Department of Gerontology and Social Medicine, Andrija Stampar Teaching Institute of Public Health, Zagreb 10000, Croatia
| | - Vladimir Stevanovic
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases with Clinic, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine University of Zagreb, Zagreb 10000, Croatia
| | - Mateja Vujica
- Institute of Emergency Medicine of Krapina-Zagorje County, Krapina 49000, Croatia
| | - Zeljka Jurekovic
- Department of Nephrology, Merkur University Hospital, Zagreb 10000, Croatia
| | | | - Maja Vilibic
- Department for Social Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychodiagnostics, University Clinical Hospital Center “Sestre Milosrdnice”, Zagreb 10000, Croatia
| | - Tatjana Vilibic-Cavlek
- School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb 10000, Croatia
- Department of Virology, Croatian Institute of Public Health, Zagreb 10000, Croatia
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11
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Current Knowledge of Hepatitis E Virus (HEV) Epidemiology in Ruminants. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11101124. [PMID: 36297181 PMCID: PMC9609093 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11101124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection represents an emerging public health concern worldwide. In industrialized countries, increasing numbers of autochthonous cases of human HEV infection are caused by zoonotic transmission of genotypes 3 and 4, mainly through the consumption of contaminated raw or undercooked meat of infected pigs and wild boars, which are considered the main reservoirs of HEV. However, in the last few years, accumulating evidence seems to indicate that several other animals, including different ruminant species, may harbor HEV. Understanding the impact of HEV infection in ruminants and identifying the risk factors affecting transmission among animals and to humans is critical in order to determine their role in the epidemiological cycle of HEV. In this review, we provide a summary of current knowledge on HEV ecology in ruminants. A growing body of evidence has revealed that these animal species may be potential important hosts of HEV, raising concerns about the possible implications for public health.
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12
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Fanelli A, Tizzani P, Buonavoglia D. A systematic review and meta-analysis of hepatitis E virus (HEV) in wild boars. Res Vet Sci 2021; 142:54-69. [PMID: 34864434 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2021.11.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2021] [Revised: 05/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
This systematic review and meta-analysis summarize the available information on Hepatitis E virus (HEV) -specific antibody seroprevalence and HEV RNA prevalence in wild boar, one of the most abundant game species worldwide. A literature search (CAB Abstracts, Web of Science, Embase and Scopus) was performed to find relevant peer-reviewed works published during the period 1990-2020. A random-effect model was carried out to calculate the pooled HEV-specific antibody seroprevalence and HEV RNA prevalence estimates with 95% confidence intervals, and I2 statistic was used to assess the heterogeneity of the data. Values by subgroups were compared according to the geographical area, age class (≤ 12 months old and > 12 months old), and sample type (bile, faeces, liver, meat/muscle, serum). Sixty-nine publications were selected, with the majority of the studies from Southern Europe (n = 27). The pooled HEV-specific antibody seroprevalence in wild boar was 28% (CI95% 23-34) and the HEV RNA prevalence 8% (CI95% 6-10). The analysis highlighted a significant heterogeneity among the estimates from the included studies (I2 = 98% and I2 = 95% for HEV-specific antibody seroprevalence and viral prevalence respectively). The moderator analysis indicated a statistically significant difference (p-value = 0.03) for the HEV RNA prevalence according to the sample type, with the highest value in bile (17%, CI95% 9-27), followed by liver (10%, CI95% 7-14), serum (7%, CI95% 4-10), faeces (5%, CI95% 2-9), and meat/muscle (3%, CI95% 0.04-10). Finally, the HEV RNA prevalence in Europe (8.7, CI95% 6.7-11) was significantly (p-value = 0.04) higher than in Asia (4, CI95% 0.6-8). The analysis highlights the important role of wild boar in the epidemiology of HEV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Fanelli
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari, Valenzano, Bari, Italy.
| | - Paolo Tizzani
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Grugliasco, Turin, Italy
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13
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Mrzljak A, Balen I, Barbic L, Ilic M, Vilibic-Cavlek T. Hepatitis E virus in professionally exposed: A reason for concern? World J Hepatol 2021; 13:723-730. [PMID: 34367494 PMCID: PMC8326162 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v13.i7.723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2021] [Revised: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The zoonotic risk of hepatitis E virus (HEV) is well established. The HEV seroprevalence rates vary according to geographical region, assays used, and study cohorts. HEV infection is still underdiagnosed, implying the need to evaluate the disease's burden in the general population and specific risk groups, such as professionally exposed. Close contact with various animal reservoirs such as pigs, rabbits, sheep, dogs, wild boars, and deer has been associated with higher anti-HEV seroprevalence as a part of occupational exposure. While exact transmission routes remain to be determined, some general preventive measures such as proper hand hygiene, the usage of personal protective equipment, and the thermal processing of food before consumption should be followed. A "One-Health" multisectoral approach should be implemented to achieve optimal health and well-being outcomes, recognizing the interconnections between humans, animals, plants, and their shared environment, in which a vaccine against the zoonotic genotypes 3 and 4 and swine vaccination should be considered as a possible public health measure. This opinion review comprehensively addresses the HEV burden of professional exposure for butchers, slaughterhouse workers, veterinarians, farmers, hunters, and forestry workers delineates the current limits of protective work measures, and tackles future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Mrzljak
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital Centre Zagreb, Zagreb 10000, Croatia
- School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb 10000, Croatia.
| | - Ivan Balen
- Department of Gastroenterology and Endocrinology, General Hospital “Dr. Josip Bencevic”, Slavonski Brod 35000, Croatia
| | - Ljubo Barbic
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb 10000, Croatia
| | - Maja Ilic
- Department of Epidemiology, Croatian Institute of Public Health, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb 10000, Croatia
| | - Tatjana Vilibic-Cavlek
- School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb 10000, Croatia
- Department of Virology, Croatian Institute of Public Health, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb 10000, Croatia
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14
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Acke S, Couvreur S, Bramer WM, Schmickler MN, De Schryver A, Haagsma JA. Global infectious disease risks associated with occupational exposure among non-healthcare workers: a systematic review of the literature. Occup Environ Med 2021; 79:63-71. [PMID: 34035182 PMCID: PMC8685622 DOI: 10.1136/oemed-2020-107164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2020] [Revised: 02/07/2021] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Objectives Employees in non-healthcare occupations may be in several ways exposed to infectious agents. Improved knowledge about the risks is needed to identify opportunities to prevent work-related infectious diseases. The objective of the current study was to provide an updated overview of the published evidence on the exposure to pathogens among non-healthcare workers. Because of the recent SARS-CoV-2 outbreaks, we also aimed to gain more evidence about exposure to several respiratory tract pathogens. Methods Eligible studies were identified in MEDLINE, Embase and Cochrane between 2009 and 8 December 2020. The protocol was registered with International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (CRD42019107265). An additional quality assessment was applied according to the Equator network guidelines. Results The systematic literature search yielded 4620 papers of which 270 met the selection and quality criteria. Infectious disease risks were described in 37 occupational groups; 18 of them were not mentioned before. Armed forces (n=36 pathogens), livestock farm labourers (n=31), livestock/dairy producers (n=26), abattoir workers (n=22); animal carers and forestry workers (both n=16) seemed to have the highest risk. In total, 111 pathogen exposures were found. Many of these occupational groups (81.1%) were exposed to respiratory tract pathogens. Conclusion Many of these respiratory tract pathogens were readily transmitted where employees congregate (workplace risk factors), while worker risk factors seemed to be of increasing importance. By analysing existing knowledge of these risk factors, identifying new risks and susceptible risk groups, this review aimed to raise awareness of the issue and provide reliable information to establish more effective preventive measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofie Acke
- Family Medicine and Population Health (FAMPOP), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium.,Research and Development, Mensura Occupational Health Services, Brussel, Belgium
| | - Simon Couvreur
- Department of Twin Research, King's College London, London, UK
| | | | | | - Antoon De Schryver
- Family Medicine and Population Health (FAMPOP), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Juanita A Haagsma
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, Zuid-Holland, The Netherlands
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15
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Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a cosmopolitan foodborne pathogen. The viral agent infects humans through the consumption of contaminated food (uncooked or undercooked). Most cases of infection are asymptomatic and for this reason, this pathology is considered underdiagnosed. Domestic and wild animals are considered natural reservoirs: that is, domestic pig, wild boar, sheep, goat, deer, rabbit, and so on. Therefore, various work categories are at risk: that is, veterinarians, farmers, hunters, slaughterhouse workers, and so on. In these last decades, researchers found a high percentage of positivity to the molecular viral detection in several food matrices included: ready-to-eat products, processed meat products, milk, and shellfish. This review aims to provide an international scenario regarding HEV ribonucleic acid (RNA) detection in several foodstuffs. From this investigative perspective, the study aims to highlight various gaps of the current knowledge about technologies treatments' impact on viral loads. The purpose was also to provide an innovative point of view "One Health"-based, pointing out the strategic role of environmental safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gianluigi Ferri
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Food Inspection, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | - Alberto Vergara
- Post-Graduate Specialization School in Food Inspection "G. Tiecco," Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Food Inspection, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
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16
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Tsachev I, Baymakova M, Marutsov P, Gospodinova K, Kundurzhiev T, Petrov V, Pepovich R. Seroprevalence of Hepatitis E Virus Infection Among Wild Boars in Western Bulgaria. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2021; 21:441-445. [PMID: 33625897 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2020.2756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Scientific evidence indicates that hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection is a zoonotic disease. Domestic pigs and wild boars are the main animal reservoir for HEV worldwide. The aim of this study was to analyze the seroprevalence of HEV infection among wild boars in western Bulgaria. Serum samples from 240 wild boars from two regions of the country (northwestern and southwestern) were tested for anti-HEV Immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies. The overall HEV seroprevalence was 40.8% (98/240); northwestern region 40.0% (48/120); southwestern region 41.7% (50/120). HEV seropositivity in the southwestern region was higher than in the northwestern region: odds ratio = 1.071 (95% confidence interval: 0.640-1.793). This research provided the first seroprevalence study to HEV in wild boars from western Bulgaria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilia Tsachev
- Department of Microbiology, Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Trakia University, Stara Zagora, Bulgaria
| | - Magdalena Baymakova
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Military Medical Academy, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Plamen Marutsov
- Department of Microbiology, Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Trakia University, Stara Zagora, Bulgaria
| | - Krasimira Gospodinova
- Department of Microbiology, Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Trakia University, Stara Zagora, Bulgaria
| | - Todor Kundurzhiev
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Faculty of Public Health, Medical University, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Vladimir Petrov
- Department of Microbiology, Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Trakia University, Stara Zagora, Bulgaria
| | - Roman Pepovich
- Department of Infectious Pathology, Hygiene, Technology and Control of Foods from Animal Origin, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Forestry, Sofia, Bulgaria
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17
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Tsachev I, Baymakova M, Pepovich R, Palova N, Marutsov P, Gospodinova K, Kundurzhiev T, Ciccozzi M. High Seroprevalence of Hepatitis E Virus Infection Among East Balkan Swine ( Sus scrofa) in Bulgaria: Preliminary Results. Pathogens 2020; 9:pathogens9110911. [PMID: 33153218 PMCID: PMC7693706 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens9110911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2020] [Revised: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The East Balkan swine (Sus scrofa) is the only aboriginal pig breed in Bulgaria, and it is indigenous to the eastern part of the country. The aim of the present study was to investigate East Balkan swine (EBS) in Bulgaria for serological evidence of hepatitis E virus (HEV). Sera from 171 swine from two parts of the country (northeastern and southeastern) were tested for anti-HEV IgG antibodies. The overall HEV seroprevalence was 82.5% (141/171), and for weaners it was 77.2% (44/57), for fattening pigs 79.0% (45/57), and for adults 91.2% (52/57). HEV positivity was higher in fattening pigs and adults compared to weaners: OR = 1.108 (95% CI: 0.456–2.692) and OR = 3.073 (95% CI: 1.016–9.294), respectively. This study provides the first evidence of exposure to HEV in EBS from Bulgaria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilia Tsachev
- Department of Microbiology, Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Trakia University, 6000 Stara Zagora, Bulgaria; (I.T.); (P.M.); (K.G.)
| | - Magdalena Baymakova
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Military Medical Academy, 1606 Sofia, Bulgaria
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +359-882-28-50-87
| | - Roman Pepovich
- Department of Infectious Pathology, Hygiene, Technology and Control of Foods from Animal Origin, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Forestry, 1797 Sofia, Bulgaria;
| | | | - Plamen Marutsov
- Department of Microbiology, Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Trakia University, 6000 Stara Zagora, Bulgaria; (I.T.); (P.M.); (K.G.)
| | - Krasimira Gospodinova
- Department of Microbiology, Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Trakia University, 6000 Stara Zagora, Bulgaria; (I.T.); (P.M.); (K.G.)
| | - Todor Kundurzhiev
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Faculty of Public Health, Medical University, 1527 Sofia, Bulgaria;
| | - Massimo Ciccozzi
- Unit of Medical Statistics and Molecular Epidemiology, Universita Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, 00128 Rome, Italy;
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18
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Mesquita JR, Santos-Ferreira N, Ferreira AS, Albuquerque C, Nóbrega C, Esteves F, Cruz R, Vala H, Nascimento MSJ. Increased risk of hepatitis E virus infection in workers occupationally exposed to sheep. Transbound Emerg Dis 2020; 67:1918-1921. [PMID: 32090484 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.13524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2019] [Revised: 02/06/2020] [Accepted: 02/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is an enteric RNA virus from the family Hepeviridae with five genotypes (genotypes 1-4 and 7) known to infect humans. HEV infection is known to have a zoonotic swine origin in industrialized countries. The role of pigs and wild boars as major reservoirs for human infection is today well-established; however, the list of new animal reservoirs is ever-expanding as new HEV strains are continuously being found in a broad host range. The recent detection of HEV in sheep stools brings concerns on the possibility of HEV transmission from these animals to humans, particularly in those occupationally exposed. The present work investigated the potential occupational risk of HEV infection in shepherds and sheep milk cheesemakers-workers occupationally exposed to ovine (WOEOs; N = 96)-from a region of the Centre of Portugal ('Serra da Estrela') based on the differences of anti-HEV IgG seroprevalence rates between these professionals and the general population (N = 192). The presence of HEV-specific antibodies in sheep (N = 90) from the same region was also evaluated. The HEV seroprevalence in WOEOs (29.3%) was found to be significantly higher (p = .0198) when compared with population controls (16.1%) which suggests an increased risk for HEV infection in these workers. HEV-specific antibodies were also found in 16.6% of the studied sheep showing that HEV circulates in these animals. Further studies are needed to confirm the zoonotic potential of sheep HEV.
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Affiliation(s)
- João R Mesquita
- Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Epidemiology Research Unit, Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | | | - Ana S Ferreira
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Carlos Albuquerque
- Escola Superior de Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Viseu, UNICISA-E, CIEC, CI&DEI Viseu, Viseu, Portugal
- Centre for Studies in Education, Technologies and Health, Instituto Politécnico de Viseu, Viseu, Portugal
| | - Cármen Nóbrega
- Centre for Studies in Education, Technologies and Health, Instituto Politécnico de Viseu, Viseu, Portugal
- Escola Superior Agrária, Instituto Politécnico de Viseu, Viseu, Portugal
| | - Fernando Esteves
- Centre for Studies in Education, Technologies and Health, Instituto Politécnico de Viseu, Viseu, Portugal
- Escola Superior Agrária, Instituto Politécnico de Viseu, Viseu, Portugal
| | - Rita Cruz
- Centre for Studies in Education, Technologies and Health, Instituto Politécnico de Viseu, Viseu, Portugal
- Escola Superior Agrária, Instituto Politécnico de Viseu, Viseu, Portugal
| | - Helena Vala
- Centre for Studies in Education, Technologies and Health, Instituto Politécnico de Viseu, Viseu, Portugal
- Escola Superior Agrária, Instituto Politécnico de Viseu, Viseu, Portugal
| | - Maria S J Nascimento
- Epidemiology Research Unit, Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
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Takova K, Koynarski T, Minkov I, Ivanova Z, Toneva V, Zahmanova G. Increasing Hepatitis E Virus Seroprevalence in Domestic Pigs and Wild Boar in Bulgaria. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10091521. [PMID: 32872096 PMCID: PMC7552291 DOI: 10.3390/ani10091521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2020] [Revised: 08/24/2020] [Accepted: 08/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a lesser-known hepatitis virus, but its worldwide spread is undisputed and has increased in recent years. The zoonotic spread of HEV, mainly due to genotype (gt) 3, emerged in developed countries in the past decade. In addition, transmission via contaminated meat from pigs and boars was also established. Detailed analysis of viral dynamics and distribution is needed in order to identify associated risk factors. The aim of the current study is to present new and additional data on the HEV distribution among pigs, and for the first-time, also among the wild boar population in Bulgaria. Abstract (1) Background: Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a causative agent of acute viral hepatitis, predominantly transmitted by the fecal–oral route. In developed countries, HEV is considered to be an emerging pathogen since the number of autochthonous cases is rising. Hepatitis E is a viral disease with a proven zoonotic potential for some of its genotypes. The main viral reservoirs are domestic pigs and wild boar. Consumption of undercooked meat, as well as occupational exposure, are key factors for the spread of HEV. In order to evaluate the risks of future viral evolution, a detailed examination of the ecology and distribution of the virus is needed. The aim of the present study is to investigate the prevalence of anti-HEV IgG Ab in domestic pigs and wild boar in Bulgaria; (2) Methods: In this study, during the period of three years between 2017 and 2019, 433 serum samples from 19 different pig farms and 1 slaughterhouse were collected and analyzed. In addition, 32 samples from wild boar were also collected and analyzed during the 2018–2019 hunting season. All samples were analyzed by commercial indirect ELISA; (3) Results: Overall, HEV seroprevalence was 60% (95% CI 42.7–77.1) in domestic pigs and 12.5% (4/32) in wild boar. The observed seroprevalence of the slaughter-aged pigs was 73.65% (95% Cl 58.7–87.3). Prevalence in domestic pigs was significantly higher in the samples collected during 2019 (98% (95% Cl 96.1–99.9)) compared to those collected during 2017 (45.33% (95% CI 2.7–87.3)) and 2018 (38.46% (95% CI 29.1–49.7.); (4) Conclusions: Our findings suggest that domesticated pigs and wild boar might be the reason for the increased HEV transmission across Bulgaria. The genotypic characterization of HEV found in pigs, wild boar and humans will give a more accurate view of the zoonotic transmission of this virus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katerina Takova
- Department of Plant Physiology and Molecular Biology, University of Plovdiv, 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria; (K.T.); (V.T.)
| | - Tsvetoslav Koynarski
- Department of Animal Genetics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Trakia University, 6000 Stara Zagora, Bulgaria;
| | - Ivan Minkov
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnologies, 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria; (I.M.); (Z.I.)
- Center of Plant Systems Biology and Biotechnology, 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | - Zdravka Ivanova
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnologies, 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria; (I.M.); (Z.I.)
| | - Valentina Toneva
- Department of Plant Physiology and Molecular Biology, University of Plovdiv, 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria; (K.T.); (V.T.)
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnologies, 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria; (I.M.); (Z.I.)
| | - Gergana Zahmanova
- Department of Plant Physiology and Molecular Biology, University of Plovdiv, 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria; (K.T.); (V.T.)
- Center of Plant Systems Biology and Biotechnology, 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +359-32-261529
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Monini M, Ostanello F, Dominicis A, Tagliapietra V, Vaccari G, Rizzoli A, Trombetta CM, Montomoli E, Di Bartolo I. Seroprevalence of Hepatitis E Virus in Forestry Workers from Trentino-Alto Adige Region (Northern Italy). Pathogens 2020; 9:pathogens9070568. [PMID: 32674277 PMCID: PMC7399850 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens9070568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Revised: 07/02/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
People with some occupational or recreational activities, such as hunters and veterinarians, may have increased risk to be infected by the hepatitis E virus (HEV). The aim of the present study was to establish whether forestry workers could be considered at a higher risk of HEV infection than a control group. One hundred and fifty sera from forestry workers and a control group of 85 sera were analysed by anti-HEV IgG antibodies detection using a commercial ELISA kit. The anti-HEV IgG seroprevalence was 14% for forestry workers and 9.4% for the control group. Comparing the risk of HEV infection in the two groups, there was no difference in the odds ratio. However, the seroprevalence in older subjects was higher in the forestry workers than in the control group. Two sera from forestry workers were also positive for anti-HEV IgM, and, in one of them, HEV-RNA was detected. Our findings showed an increase of seroprevalence with age, which is likely to reflect cumulative exposure to HEV over time. The occupation of forestry workers did not seem to be associated with a higher risk of HEV infection. The study provided new insights into the risk of acquiring HEV in occupational exposure workers with open-air activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Monini
- Department of Food Safety, Nutrition and Veterinary Public Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy; (A.D.); (G.V.); (I.D.B.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0649902787
| | - Fabio Ostanello
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra, 50, 40064 Ozzano dell’Emilia (BO), Italy;
| | - Alessandra Dominicis
- Department of Food Safety, Nutrition and Veterinary Public Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy; (A.D.); (G.V.); (I.D.B.)
| | - Valentina Tagliapietra
- Department of Biodiversity and Molecular Ecology, Research and Innovation Centre, Fondazione Edmund Mach, Via E. Mach, 1, 38098 San Michele all’Adige (TN), Italy; (V.T.); (A.R.)
| | - Gabriele Vaccari
- Department of Food Safety, Nutrition and Veterinary Public Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy; (A.D.); (G.V.); (I.D.B.)
| | - Annapaola Rizzoli
- Department of Biodiversity and Molecular Ecology, Research and Innovation Centre, Fondazione Edmund Mach, Via E. Mach, 1, 38098 San Michele all’Adige (TN), Italy; (V.T.); (A.R.)
| | - Claudia M. Trombetta
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy; (C.M.T.); (E.M.)
| | - Emanuele Montomoli
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy; (C.M.T.); (E.M.)
- VisMederi S.r.l., Strada del Petriccio e Belriguardo, 35, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Ilaria Di Bartolo
- Department of Food Safety, Nutrition and Veterinary Public Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy; (A.D.); (G.V.); (I.D.B.)
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Reproductive characteristics of wild boar males (Sus scrofa) under different environmental conditions. ACTA VET BRNO 2020. [DOI: 10.2754/avb201988040401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
The wild boar population has been on a permanent increase over the last decades, causing conflicts with the requirements of modern human society. Existing effort to stabilize wild boar numbers generally fails with one of the causes being the high reproductive potential of wild boar. The aim of this study was to assess the onset of sexual maturity in wild boar males with regard to age, physical frame and environmental conditions on the basis of testicle development and sperm production. This study assessed the dimensions of gonads and the occurrence of sperm in boars caught during common hunts. Environmental conditions were found as an important factor for growth and sexual maturity of wild boar males. The body weight was a more important factor for sperm production than the age of young wild boar males. The weight threshold for sperm production in the testes was 29 kg of live weight, which corresponds to 6 months of age on average. This study has proven that environmental conditions are a significant factor affecting the physical development of male wild boars, more specifically the growth rate of their body frames and the onset of sexual maturity. In a better quality environment boars grow faster and enter puberty at an earlier age. Poor food supply and/or high hunting pressure result in slower body and testicular growth, as well as the production of sperm at a later age (approx. 2-3 months later).
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22
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Rui P, Zhao F, Yan S, Wang C, Fu Q, Hao J, Zhou X, Zhong H, Tang M, Hui W, Li W, Shi D, Ma Z, Song T. Detection of hepatitis E virus genotypes 3 and 4 in donkeys in northern China. Equine Vet J 2019; 52:415-419. [PMID: 31746470 DOI: 10.1111/evj.13203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2018] [Accepted: 10/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is the causative agent of acute self-limiting hepatitis in humans in developing countries. Hepatitis E virus RNA was first detected in donkeys in Spain, but little is known about the possible presence of HEV in donkeys in China. OBJECTIVES To investigate the prevalence of HEV in donkeys in northern China. STUDY DESIGN Investigation of the prevalence of HEV in donkeys using serological, molecular and phylogenetic approaches. METHODS A total of 401 donkey serum specimens were tested for serological and molecular detection of HEV via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. The amplified products were cloned in pMD18-T vector and sequenced. The alignment and phylogenetic analysis of partial HEV ORF2 genes were compared with the corresponding sequences of the obtained HEV representative strains. RESULTS Serological results showed that 49 donkeys (12.22%, 95% CI: 9.18-15.83%) were positive for anti-HEV-specific antibodies, and 17 donkeys (4.24%, 95% CI: 2.49-6.70%) were positive for HEV viral RNA. On the basis of sequence alignment and phylogenetic analysis, all isolated HEV strains belonged to genotype 3 (HEV-3) or HEV-4, sharing more than 76.2-96.3% identities with 67 other HEV representative strains of HEV-1 to HEV-8. MAIN LIMITATIONS Further studies about the prevalence of HEV in organs or faecal samples from donkeys are needed to evaluate the possible role of HEV reservoir and to determine the risk factors associated with the transmission of this zoonotic virus in donkeys in China. CONCLUSIONS This is the first report documenting the molecular analysis of donkey HEV strains worldwide and the serological evidence of HEV infection in donkeys in northern China. The results suggest that young donkeys are more susceptible to HEV infection compared with older donkeys. Further investigation is required to determine whether donkeys should be considered reservoirs for zoonotic HEV. The Summary is available in Chinese - see Supporting information.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Rui
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Normal University of Science and Technology, Qinhuangdao, Hebei, China
| | - F Zhao
- National Engineering Research Center for Gelatin-based TCM, Dong-E E-Jiao Co., Ltd., Donge, Shandong, China
| | - S Yan
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Normal University of Science and Technology, Qinhuangdao, Hebei, China
| | - C Wang
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Normal University of Science and Technology, Qinhuangdao, Hebei, China
| | - Q Fu
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Normal University of Science and Technology, Qinhuangdao, Hebei, China
| | - J Hao
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Normal University of Science and Technology, Qinhuangdao, Hebei, China
| | - X Zhou
- National Engineering Research Center for Gelatin-based TCM, Dong-E E-Jiao Co., Ltd., Donge, Shandong, China
| | - H Zhong
- College of Science, Henan University of Engineering, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - M Tang
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Normal University of Science and Technology, Qinhuangdao, Hebei, China
| | - W Hui
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Normal University of Science and Technology, Qinhuangdao, Hebei, China
| | - W Li
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Normal University of Science and Technology, Qinhuangdao, Hebei, China
| | - D Shi
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Normal University of Science and Technology, Qinhuangdao, Hebei, China
| | - Z Ma
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Normal University of Science and Technology, Qinhuangdao, Hebei, China
| | - T Song
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Normal University of Science and Technology, Qinhuangdao, Hebei, China
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Wilhelm B, Waddell L, Greig J, Young I. Systematic review and meta-analysis of the seroprevalence of hepatitis E virus in the general population across non-endemic countries. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0216826. [PMID: 31173594 PMCID: PMC6555507 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0216826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2019] [Accepted: 04/29/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis E virus (HEV) has commonly been associated with large waterborne outbreaks of human jaundice in endemic areas but it has been increasingly recognised as a cause of sporadic human cases of jaundice in non-endemic areas, in individuals with no history of travel. Zoonotic exposure is widely hypothesized to be an important potential transmission route in these sporadic human cases. Serosurveys conducted to determine the frequency of HEV human exposure report wide ranges in prevalence across studies and locations. Our study objective was to compute meta-analysis summary estimates of human seroprevalence of HEV IgG within countries considered HEV non-endemic, where possible, and to determine whether this varied significantly across these countries, as well as investigating the role of potential HEV seroprevalence predictors such as population age structure. MATERIALS AND METHODS A broad literature search was conducted in six electronic databases. Citations were appraised, and relevant data extracted using forms designed and pre-tested a priori. Meta-analysis and meta-regression were conducted in R, with HEV IgG seroprevalence in blood donors or the general population being the outcome of interest, and country, assay, population age and sex structure, and chronological time investigated as predictors of the outcome. RESULTS From 4163 unique citations initially captured, data were extracted from 135 studies investigating HEV serology in blood donors or the general population, of 31 countries among those categorised as 'very high human development' by the United Nations. Country of sampling and assay employed were consistently significant predictors of HEV IgG seroprevalence with chronological time being a non-significant predictor in the dataset of captured studies. CONCLUSIONS While country of sampling and assay employed were significant predictors of HEV seroprevalence, comparison of HEV seroprevalence across non-endemic countries is hampered by the lack of a gold standard assay and uncertainty regarding residual bias across studies, as well as regional differences within some countries.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lisa Waddell
- National Microbiology Laboratory at Guelph, Public Health Agency of Canada, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Judy Greig
- National Microbiology Laboratory at Guelph, Public Health Agency of Canada, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ian Young
- School of Occupational and Public Health, Ryerson University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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24
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The Current Host Range of Hepatitis E Viruses. Viruses 2019; 11:v11050452. [PMID: 31108942 PMCID: PMC6563279 DOI: 10.3390/v11050452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2019] [Revised: 05/08/2019] [Accepted: 05/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is an emerging zoonotic pathogen transmitting both human to human via the fecal oral route and from animals to humans through feces, direct contact, and consumption of contaminated meat products. Understanding the host range of the virus is critical for determining where potential threats to human health may be emerging from and where potential reservoirs for viral persistence in the environment may be hiding. Initially thought to be a human specific disease endemic to developing countries, the identification of swine as a primary host for genotypes 3 and 4 HEV in industrialized countries has begun a long journey of discovering novel strains of HEV and their animal hosts. As we continue identifying new strains of HEV in disparate animal species, it is becoming abundantly clear that HEV has a broad host range and many of these HEV strains can cross between differing animal species. These cross-species transmitting strains pose many unique challenges to human health as they are often unrecognized as sources of viral transmission.
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25
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Zecchin B, Schivo A, Milani A, Fusaro A, Zamperin G, Bellinati L, Ceglie L, Natale A, Bonfanti L, Cunial G, Obber F, Di Bartolo I, Citterio C, Monne I. Identification of a zoonotic genotype 3 hepatitis E subtype in wildlife in north-eastern Italy. INFECTION GENETICS AND EVOLUTION 2019; 71:16-20. [PMID: 30876888 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2019.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2019] [Revised: 02/22/2019] [Accepted: 03/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is an emerging zoonosis caused by a positive RNA single stranded virus of the Hepeviridae family. In developed countries, pigs and wild boars are the main reservoir for zoonotic genotypes 3 and 4. In spring 2017, for the first time HEV was detected in wild boars captured in the Regional Park of the Euganean Hills, in north-eastern Italy. Phylogenetic analysis of two complete viral genomes and seven partial ORF1 and ORF2 sequences of HEV viruses, selected from twelve positive animals, showed that the viruses grouped together within genotype 3 but clustered separately from previously identified subtypes, thus suggesting the identification of a novel genotype 3 subtype. The phylogenetic analysis of nine partial ORF2 sequences showed the closest similarity with wild boar/human viruses identified in central-northern Italy in 2012. The circulation of HEVs in this area, characterized by a vast man-made environment, an overpopulation of wild boars and >150 swine farms, should be considered in a public health perspective. Further investigations at the wild/domestic species and human interface are therefore necessary to gain a deeper understanding of HEV dynamics.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Zecchin
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Viale dell'Università, 10, 35020 Legnaro, Padova, Italy.
| | - A Schivo
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Viale dell'Università, 10, 35020 Legnaro, Padova, Italy
| | - A Milani
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Viale dell'Università, 10, 35020 Legnaro, Padova, Italy
| | - A Fusaro
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Viale dell'Università, 10, 35020 Legnaro, Padova, Italy
| | - G Zamperin
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Viale dell'Università, 10, 35020 Legnaro, Padova, Italy
| | - L Bellinati
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Viale dell'Università, 10, 35020 Legnaro, Padova, Italy
| | - L Ceglie
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Viale dell'Università, 10, 35020 Legnaro, Padova, Italy
| | - A Natale
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Viale dell'Università, 10, 35020 Legnaro, Padova, Italy
| | - L Bonfanti
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Viale dell'Università, 10, 35020 Legnaro, Padova, Italy
| | - G Cunial
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Viale dell'Università, 10, 35020 Legnaro, Padova, Italy
| | - F Obber
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Viale dell'Università, 10, 35020 Legnaro, Padova, Italy
| | - I Di Bartolo
- Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - C Citterio
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Viale dell'Università, 10, 35020 Legnaro, Padova, Italy
| | - I Monne
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Viale dell'Università, 10, 35020 Legnaro, Padova, Italy
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Vonesch N, Binazzi A, Bonafede M, Melis P, Ruggieri A, Iavicoli S, Tomao P. Emerging zoonotic viral infections of occupational health importance. Pathog Dis 2019; 77:ftz018. [PMID: 30916772 PMCID: PMC7108535 DOI: 10.1093/femspd/ftz018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2019] [Accepted: 03/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Emerging viral infections represent a public health risk pointed out by the spreading of pathogens with potential zoonotic risk. Moreover, the risk of zoonosis has probably been underestimated in occupational settings. A literature review between 2007 and 2018 was performed to identify evidences concerning the epidemiological associations between some emerging viruses and occupational diseases. Observational studies and case-reports were selected and analyzed. West Nile Virus (WNV) disease, Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) disease and Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection were included in the review for their potential zoonotic transmission. The most important risk factor for acquiring WNV infection and CCHF infection is the exposure to infected mosquitoes and ticks, respectively; therefore, outdoor workers are at risk of infection. HEV is responsible for epidemics and endemics of acute hepatitis in humans, that can become infected through waterborne, foodborne and zoonotic transmission routes. A total of 10, 34 and 45 eligible studies for WNV, CCHF virus (CCFHV) and HEV, respectively, were analyzed by year, country, study design, risk group and outcomes. The occupational risk groups mainly included farm and agricultural workers, veterinarians, slaughterers, animal handlers, healthcare workers and soldiers. These findings support the need to develop effective interventions to prevent transmission of emerging viruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicoletta Vonesch
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Epidemiology and Hygiene, Italian National Workers Compensation Authority, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra Binazzi
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Epidemiology and Hygiene, Italian National Workers Compensation Authority, Rome, Italy
| | - Michela Bonafede
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Epidemiology and Hygiene, Italian National Workers Compensation Authority, Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Melis
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Epidemiology and Hygiene, Italian National Workers Compensation Authority, Rome, Italy
| | - Anna Ruggieri
- Center for Gender Specific Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità,Viale Regina Elena 299, Rome, Italy
| | - Sergio Iavicoli
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Epidemiology and Hygiene, Italian National Workers Compensation Authority, Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Tomao
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Epidemiology and Hygiene, Italian National Workers Compensation Authority, Rome, Italy
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Wang H, Castillo-Contreras R, Saguti F, López-Olvera JR, Karlsson M, Mentaberre G, Lindh M, Serra-Cobo J, Norder H. Genetically similar hepatitis E virus strains infect both humans and wild boars in the Barcelona area, Spain, and Sweden. Transbound Emerg Dis 2019; 66:978-985. [PMID: 30597741 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.13115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2018] [Revised: 12/20/2018] [Accepted: 12/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a hepatotropic virus, endemic in Europe where it infects humans and animals, with domestic pigs and wild boars as main reservoirs. The number of HEV-infected cases with unknown source of infection increases in Europe. There are human HEV strains genetically similar to viruses from domestic pigs, and zoonotic transmission via consumption of uncooked pork meat has been shown. Due to continuous growth of the wild boar populations in Europe, another route may be through direct or indirect contacts with wild boars. In the Collserola Natural Park near Barcelona, Spain, the wild boars have spread into Barcelona city. In Sweden, they are entering into farmlands and villages. To investigate the prevalence of HEV and the risk for zoonotic transmissions, the presence of antibodies against HEV and HEV RNA were analysed in serum and faecal samples from 398 wild boars, 264 from Spain and 134 from Sweden and in sera from 48 Swedish patients with HEV infection without known source of infection. Anti-HEV was more commonly found in Spanish wild boars (59% vs. 8%; p < 0.0001) while HEV RNA had similar prevalence (20% in Spanish vs. 15% in Swedish wild boars). Seven Swedish and three Spanish wild boars were infected with subtype 3f, and nine Spanish with subtype 3c/i. There were three clades in the phylogenetic tree formed by strains from wild boars and domestic pigs; another four clades were formed by strains from humans and wild boars. One strain from a Spanish wild boar was similar to strains from chronically infected humans. The high prevalence of HEV infections among wild boars and the similarity between wild boar HEV strains and those from humans and domestic pigs indicate that zoonotic transmission from wild boar may be more common than previously anticipated, which may develop into public health concern.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Wang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute of Biomedicine at Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Raquel Castillo-Contreras
- Wildlife Ecology & Health Group and Servei d' Ecopatologia de Fauna Salvatge (SEFaS), Department de Medicina i Cirurgia Animals, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Fredy Saguti
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute of Biomedicine at Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Jorge R López-Olvera
- Wildlife Ecology & Health Group and Servei d' Ecopatologia de Fauna Salvatge (SEFaS), Department de Medicina i Cirurgia Animals, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marie Karlsson
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute of Biomedicine at Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Gregorio Mentaberre
- Wildlife Ecology & Health Group and Servei d' Ecopatologia de Fauna Salvatge (SEFaS), Department de Medicina i Cirurgia Animals, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Magnus Lindh
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute of Biomedicine at Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Jordi Serra-Cobo
- Departament de Biologia Evolutiva, Ecologia i Ciències Ambientals, Universitat de Barcelona, Institut de Recerca de la Biodiversitat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Heléne Norder
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute of Biomedicine at Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
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Geng Y, Zhao C, Geng K, Wang C, Wang X, Liu H, Wang Y. High seroprevalence of hepatitis E virus in rabbit slaughterhouse workers. Transbound Emerg Dis 2019; 66:1085-1089. [PMID: 30661292 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.13130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2018] [Revised: 01/11/2019] [Accepted: 01/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) was first detected in rabbits in the year 2009. Rabbit HEV is now known to be widely prevalent in rabbits and tentatively assigned into genotype 3 (HEV-3) as subgenotype-3ra (HEV-3ra). However, its role in human infection remains undetermined. This study was conducted to investigate the prevalence of HEV infection among rabbit slaughterhouse workers and to identify whether the workers exposed to rabbits are at a higher risk of HEV infection. Seventy-five workers at rabbit slaughterhouses and a control group of 421 general adults in the same area in Hebei province, China, were serologically examined for anti-HEV antibodies. HEV seroprevalences between the slaughterhouse workers and the general adults were compared. Age-adjusted prevalence of anti-HEV immunoglobulin G (IgG) in the rabbit slaughterhouse workers and control group was 46.1% and 10.8% respectively. The slaughterhouse workers had significantly higher seroprevalence and an approximately 6.9-fold increased risk for being seropositive for anti-HEV IgG as compared to the general population (odds ratio, 6.9; 95% CI: 4.3, 10.9). In slaughterhouse workers, anti-HEV IgG positive rate was positively associated with working years; in general adults, this rate was positively associated with age. The prevalence of anti-HEV immunoglobulin M (IgM) among exposed workers (6.7%) was significantly higher than that of control groups (1.2%). In conclusion, the seroprevalence of HEV is significantly higher in slaughterhouse workers than in general adults indicating that occupational exposure to rabbits is a potential risk factor for HEV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yansheng Geng
- School of Public Health, Hebei University, Baoding, China
| | - Chenyan Zhao
- Division of HIV/AIDS and Sex-Transmitted Virus Vaccines, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, Beijing, China
| | - Kunjing Geng
- Clinical Laboratory, Baoding Infectious Disease Hospital, Baoding, China
| | - Chunyan Wang
- Division of Epidemiology, Baoding Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, Baoding, China
| | - Xuanpu Wang
- School of Public Health, Hebei University, Baoding, China
| | - Huan Liu
- Division of HIV/AIDS and Sex-Transmitted Virus Vaccines, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, Beijing, China
| | - Youchun Wang
- Division of HIV/AIDS and Sex-Transmitted Virus Vaccines, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, Beijing, China
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Meta-Analysis of Human IgG anti-HEV Seroprevalence in Industrialized Countries and a Review of Literature. Viruses 2019; 11:v11010084. [PMID: 30669517 PMCID: PMC6357031 DOI: 10.3390/v11010084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2018] [Revised: 01/16/2019] [Accepted: 01/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Although Hepatitis E is increasingly described as a major cause of liver disease in industrialized countries, the epidemiology is far from being fully elucidated. We provide here a comprehensive review of documented clusters of cases, and of serological studies conducted in populations with distinct types of exposure. Seroprevalence rates range from <5% to >50% depending on the countries and the groups of population. Such discrepancies can be attributed to the type of serological assay used, but this solves only a part of the problem. We performed a meta-analysis of studies performed with the broadly used Wantai HEV-IgG ELISA and found striking differences that remain difficult to understand with the current knowledge of transmission pathways.
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30
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King NJ, Hewitt J, Perchec-Merien AM. Hiding in Plain Sight? It's Time to Investigate Other Possible Transmission Routes for Hepatitis E Virus (HEV) in Developed Countries. FOOD AND ENVIRONMENTAL VIROLOGY 2018; 10:225-252. [PMID: 29623595 DOI: 10.1007/s12560-018-9342-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2017] [Accepted: 03/29/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Historically in developed countries, reported hepatitis E cases were typically travellers returning from countries where hepatitis E virus (HEV) is endemic, but now there are increasing numbers of non-travel-related ("autochthonous") cases being reported. Data for HEV in New Zealand remain limited and the transmission routes unproven. We critically reviewed the scientific evidence supporting HEV transmission routes in other developed countries to inform how people in New Zealand may be exposed to this virus. A substantial body of indirect evidence shows domesticated pigs are a source of zoonotic human HEV infection, but there is an information bias towards this established reservoir. The increasing range of animals in which HEV has been detected makes it important to consider other possible animal reservoirs of HEV genotypes that can or could infect humans. Foodborne transmission of HEV from swine and deer products has been proven, and a large body of indirect evidence (e.g. food surveys, epidemiological studies and phylogenetic analyses) support pig products as vehicles of HEV infection. Scarce data from other foods suggest we are neglecting other potential sources of foodborne HEV infection. Moreover, other transmission routes are scarcely investigated in developed countries; the role of infected food handlers, person-to-person transmission via the faecal-oral route, and waterborne transmission from recreational contact or drinking untreated or inadequately treated water. People have become symptomatic after receiving transfusions of HEV-contaminated blood, but it is unclear how important this is in the overall hepatitis E disease burden. There is need for broader research efforts to support establishing risk-based controls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola J King
- Institute of Environmental Science and Research, 34 Kenepuru Drive, Kenepuru, Porirua, 5022, New Zealand
| | - Joanne Hewitt
- Institute of Environmental Science and Research, 34 Kenepuru Drive, Kenepuru, Porirua, 5022, New Zealand.
| | - Anne-Marie Perchec-Merien
- New Zealand Ministry for Primary Industries, Pastoral House, 25 The Terrace, Wellington, New Zealand
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31
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Weiner M, Tokarska-Rodak M, Plewik D, Pańczuk A, Szepeluk A, Krajewska M. The Serological Surveillance of Hepatitis E virus among Hunters and Foresters in Eastern Poland. Pol J Microbiol 2018; 66:277-279. [PMID: 28735306 DOI: 10.5604/01.3001.0010.7882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the study was the analysis of the occurrence of specific antibodies against HEV among hunters and foresters who are at risk to be exposed. The study group consisted of 210 hunters (23-80 years old) and 60 foresters (22-64 years old). Anti-HEV IgG were present in 3.81% of the samples of the hunters and in 5% of the samples of the foresters. The statistical analysis shows no significant differences in the results anti-HEV IgG between the groups of hunters and foresters (p = 0.5278). Significantly higher anti-HEV IgG titers were found in the older age group (> 55 years old).
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcin Weiner
- Pope John Paul II State School of Higher Education in Biala Podlaska, Department of Health, Poland
| | | | - Dorota Plewik
- Pope John Paul II State School of Higher Education in Biala Podlaska, Innovation Research Centre, Poland
| | - Anna Pańczuk
- Pope John Paul II State School of Higher Education in Biala Podlaska, Department of Health, Poland
| | - Adam Szepeluk
- Pope John Paul II State School of Higher Education in Biala Podlaska, Innovation Research Centre, Poland
| | - Monika Krajewska
- National Veterinary Research Institute, Department of Microbiology, Pulawy, Poland
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32
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Syed SF, Zhao Q, Umer M, Alagawany M, Ujjan IA, Soomro F, Bangulzai N, Baloch AH, Abd El-Hack M, Zhou EM, Arain MA. Past, present and future of hepatitis E virus infection: Zoonotic perspectives. Microb Pathog 2018; 119:103-108. [DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2018.03.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2018] [Revised: 03/26/2018] [Accepted: 03/27/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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Gonçalves D, Pereira-Vaz J, Duque V, Bandeira V, Fonseca C, Donato A, Luxo C, Matos AM. First Serological Evidence on Endemicity of HEV Infection in Wild Boar (Sus scrofa) Populations from Portugal. Virol Sin 2018; 33:197-200. [PMID: 29569145 DOI: 10.1007/s12250-018-0008-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2017] [Accepted: 01/08/2018] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Gonçalves
- Laboratory of Virology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - João Pereira-Vaz
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Clinical Pathology Unit, Hospital and University Centre of Coimbra, 3000-602, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Vitor Duque
- Infectious Diseases Department, Hospital and University Centre of Coimbra, 3000-075, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Victor Bandeira
- Biology Department and CESAM, University of Aveiro, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Carlos Fonseca
- Biology Department and CESAM, University of Aveiro, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Ana Donato
- Clinical Laboratory, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Cristina Luxo
- Research Centre on Chemical Processes Engineering and Forest Products (CIEPQF), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3030-790, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana Miguel Matos
- Research Centre on Chemical Processes Engineering and Forest Products (CIEPQF), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3030-790, Coimbra, Portugal.
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Rivero-Juarez A, Risalde MA, Frias M, García-Bocanegra I, Lopez-Lopez P, Cano-Terriza D, Camacho A, Jimenez-Ruiz S, Gomez-Villamandos JC, Rivero A. Prevalence of hepatitis E virus infection in wild boars from Spain: a possible seasonal pattern? BMC Vet Res 2018; 14:54. [PMID: 29482645 PMCID: PMC5828074 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-018-1377-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2017] [Accepted: 02/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND It has been shown that wildlife can serve as natural reservoirs of hepatitis E virus (HEV). The wild boar (Sus scrofa) is probably the main natural reservoir of HEV and could therefore represent an important route of transmission in Europe, especially in regions where game meat is widely consumed. We evaluated the prevalence of HEV infection in wild boar in the south of Spain, with the aim of identifying associated risk factors. A cross-sectional study that included hunted wild boar was carried out during the 2015/2016 hunting season (October 15 to February 15) in Andalusia (southern Spain). The outcome variable was HEV infection, defined as amplification of HEV RNA in serum by RT-PCR. RESULTS A total of 142 animals, selected from 12 hunting areas, were included and formed the study population. Thirty-three wild boars (23.2%; 95% CI: 16.8%-30.7%) were positive for HEV infection. Prevalence peaked in October and November, then gradually declined until the end of December. After multivariate analysis, only hunting date was independently associated with HEV infection across sex and age. CONCLUSIONS Our study found a relatively high prevalence of HEV infection in wild boar in the south of Spain, suggesting that prevalence may depend on the season when the animal is hunted. In consequence, the potential risk of zoonotic transmission could fluctuate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Rivero-Juarez
- Infectious Diseases Unit. Instituto Maimonides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía de Córdoba. Universidad de Córdoba, 2° Floor. Box 134.Avenida Menendez Pidal s/n, 14004, Córdoba, Spain.
| | - María A Risalde
- Infectious Diseases Unit. Instituto Maimonides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía de Córdoba. Universidad de Córdoba, 2° Floor. Box 134.Avenida Menendez Pidal s/n, 14004, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Mario Frias
- Infectious Diseases Unit. Instituto Maimonides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía de Córdoba. Universidad de Córdoba, 2° Floor. Box 134.Avenida Menendez Pidal s/n, 14004, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Ignacio García-Bocanegra
- Animal Health Department. Veterinary Science College, Universidad de Córdoba, 14014, Cordoba, Spain
| | - Pedro Lopez-Lopez
- Infectious Diseases Unit. Instituto Maimonides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía de Córdoba. Universidad de Córdoba, 2° Floor. Box 134.Avenida Menendez Pidal s/n, 14004, Córdoba, Spain
| | - David Cano-Terriza
- Animal Health Department. Veterinary Science College, Universidad de Córdoba, 14014, Cordoba, Spain
| | - Angela Camacho
- Infectious Diseases Unit. Instituto Maimonides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía de Córdoba. Universidad de Córdoba, 2° Floor. Box 134.Avenida Menendez Pidal s/n, 14004, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Saul Jimenez-Ruiz
- Animal Health Department. Veterinary Science College, Universidad de Córdoba, 14014, Cordoba, Spain
| | | | - Antonio Rivero
- Infectious Diseases Unit. Instituto Maimonides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía de Córdoba. Universidad de Córdoba, 2° Floor. Box 134.Avenida Menendez Pidal s/n, 14004, Córdoba, Spain.,Unidad de Enfermedades Infecciosas. Hospital Provincial, Complejo Hospitalario reina Sofía de Córdoba, Avenida Menendez Pidal s/n, 14006, Cordoba, Spain
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Pavio N, Doceul V, Bagdassarian E, Johne R. Recent knowledge on hepatitis E virus in Suidae reservoirs and transmission routes to human. Vet Res 2017; 48:78. [PMID: 29157309 PMCID: PMC5696788 DOI: 10.1186/s13567-017-0483-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 138] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2017] [Accepted: 10/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) causes self-limiting acute hepatitis in humans that can eventually result in acute liver failures or progress to chronic infections. While in tropical and sub-tropical areas, HEV infections are associated with important waterborne epidemics, in Northern countries, HEV infections are autochthonous with a zoonotic origin. In the past decade, it has become clear that certain HEV genotypes are zoonotic and that swine, and more generally Suidae, are the main reservoir. Zoonotic transmissions of the virus may occur via direct contact with infected pigs, wild boars or consumption of contaminated meat. This review describes the current knowledge on domestic and wild Suidae as reservoirs of HEV and the evidence of the different routes of HEV transmission between these animals and humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Pavio
- Animal Health Laboratory, UMR 1161 Virology, ANSES, Maisons-Alfort, France
- UMR 1161 Virology, INRA, Maisons-Alfort, France
- UMR 1161 Virology, PRES University Paris 12, National Veterinary School, Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Virginie Doceul
- Animal Health Laboratory, UMR 1161 Virology, ANSES, Maisons-Alfort, France
- UMR 1161 Virology, INRA, Maisons-Alfort, France
- UMR 1161 Virology, PRES University Paris 12, National Veterinary School, Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Eugénie Bagdassarian
- Animal Health Laboratory, UMR 1161 Virology, ANSES, Maisons-Alfort, France
- UMR 1161 Virology, INRA, Maisons-Alfort, France
- UMR 1161 Virology, PRES University Paris 12, National Veterinary School, Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Reimar Johne
- German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment, Berlin, Germany
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36
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Sazzad HMS, Luby SP, Labrique AB, Kamili S, Hayden TM, Kamili NA, Teo CG, Gurley ES. Risk Factors Associated with Blood Exposure for Sporadic Hepatitis E in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2017; 97:1437-1444. [PMID: 28820721 PMCID: PMC5817767 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.17-0261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2017] [Accepted: 06/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Fecal contamination of drinking water is associated with large hepatitis E virus (HEV) outbreaks of genotypes 1 and 2 in endemic areas. Sporadic transmission of HEV genotypes 3 and 4 in high-income countries has been associated with exposure to blood and animal contact. The objective of the study was to identify the risk factors for hepatitis E and the genotype(s) causing sporadic hepatitis E in Dhaka, Bangladesh. We selected, from a diagnostic center in Dhaka between November 2008 and November 2009, cases presenting with jaundice and anti-HEV IgM antibodies and age-matched controls were defined as those with no history of jaundice and normal blood test results. Serum samples were tested for HEV RNA using real-time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction followed by a sequencing and phylogenetic analysis. A total of 109 cases and 109 controls were enrolled. The cases were more likely to be male (adjusted matched odds ratios [mOR] 2.2, 95% CI: 1.2-3.9; P = 0.01), or have reported contact with another person's blood or blood product, or contact with blood-contaminated sharp instruments (adjusted mOR 2.1, 95% CI: 1.1-4.1; P = 0.03) than controls. There were no significant differences between the cases and the controls in terms of reported high-risk sexual intercourse, consumption of undercooked meat, or contact or drinking fecally-contaminated water. The sera from three cases carried HEV RNA, all belonging to genotype 1. Findings from this study suggest that contact with human blood and sharing sharp instruments may transmit sporadic hepatitis E in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Efforts to prevent the transmission of blood-borne pathogens may also prevent sporadic HEV transmission in this endemic setting.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Stephen P. Luby
- icddr,b, Dhaka, Bangladesh
- Division of Global Health Protection, Center for Global Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Atlanta, Georgia
- Stanford University, Stanford, California
| | - Alain B. Labrique
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Saleem Kamili
- Division of Viral Hepatitis, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Tonya M. Hayden
- Division of Viral Hepatitis, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Nourine A. Kamili
- Division of Viral Hepatitis, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Chong-Gee Teo
- Division of Viral Hepatitis, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Emily S. Gurley
- icddr,b, Dhaka, Bangladesh
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
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37
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Spahr C, Knauf-Witzens T, Vahlenkamp T, Ulrich RG, Johne R. Hepatitis E virus and related viruses in wild, domestic and zoo animals: A review. Zoonoses Public Health 2017; 65:11-29. [PMID: 28944602 DOI: 10.1111/zph.12405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2017] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis E is a human disease mainly characterized by acute liver illness, which is caused by infection with the hepatitis E virus (HEV). Large hepatitis E outbreaks have been described in developing countries; however, the disease is also increasingly recognized in industrialized countries. Mortality rates up to 25% have been described for pregnant women during outbreaks in developing countries. In addition, chronic disease courses could be observed in immunocompromised transplant patients. Whereas the HEV genotypes 1 and 2 are mainly confined to humans, genotypes 3 and 4 are also found in animals and can be zoonotically transmitted to humans. Domestic pig and wild boar represent the most important reservoirs for these genotypes. A distinct subtype of genotype 3 has been repeatedly detected in rabbits and a few human patients. Recently, HEV genotype 7 has been identified in dromedary camels and in an immunocompromised transplant patient. The reservoir animals get infected with HEV without showing any clinical symptoms. Besides these well-known animal reservoirs, HEV-specific antibodies and/or the genome of HEV or HEV-related viruses have also been detected in many other animal species, including primates, other mammals and birds. In particular, genotypes 3 and 4 infections are documented in many domestic, wildlife and zoo animal species. In most cases, the presence of HEV in these animals can be explained by spillover infections, but a risk of virus transmission through contact with humans cannot be excluded. This review gives a general overview on the transmission pathways of HEV to humans. It particularly focuses on reported serological and molecular evidence of infections in wild, domestic and zoo animals with HEV or HEV-related viruses. The role of these animals for transmission of HEV to humans and other animals is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Spahr
- Wilhelma Zoological-Botanical Gardens, Stuttgart, Germany.,Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Institute of Virology, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | | | - T Vahlenkamp
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Institute of Virology, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - R G Ulrich
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Institute of Novel and Emerging Infectious Diseases, Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany.,German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), partner site Hamburg-Luebeck-Borstel-Insel Riems, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - R Johne
- Department Biological Safety, German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment, Berlin, Germany
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Ricci A, Allende A, Bolton D, Chemaly M, Davies R, Fernandez Escamez PS, Herman L, Koutsoumanis K, Lindqvist R, Nørrung B, Robertson L, Ru G, Sanaa M, Simmons M, Skandamis P, Snary E, Speybroeck N, Ter Kuile B, Threlfall J, Wahlström H, Di Bartolo I, Johne R, Pavio N, Rutjes S, van der Poel W, Vasickova P, Hempen M, Messens W, Rizzi V, Latronico F, Girones R. Public health risks associated with hepatitis E virus (HEV) as a food-borne pathogen. EFSA J 2017; 15:e04886. [PMID: 32625551 PMCID: PMC7010180 DOI: 10.2903/j.efsa.2017.4886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is an important infection in humans in EU/EEA countries, and over the last 10 years more than 21,000 acute clinical cases with 28 fatalities have been notified with an overall 10-fold increase in reported HEV cases; the majority (80%) of cases were reported from France, Germany and the UK. However, as infection in humans is not notifiable in all Member States, and surveillance differs between countries, the number of reported cases is not comparable and the true number of cases would probably be higher. Food-borne transmission of HEV appears to be a major route in Europe; pigs and wild boars are the main source of HEV. Outbreaks and sporadic cases have been identified in immune-competent persons as well as in recognised risk groups such as those with pre-existing liver damage, immunosuppressive illness or receiving immunosuppressive treatments. The opinion reviews current methods for the detection, identification, characterisation and tracing of HEV in food-producing animals and foods, reviews literature on HEV reservoirs and food-borne pathways, examines information on the epidemiology of HEV and its occurrence and persistence in foods, and investigates possible control measures along the food chain. Presently, the only efficient control option for HEV infection from consumption of meat, liver and products derived from animal reservoirs is sufficient heat treatment. The development of validated quantitative and qualitative detection methods, including infectivity assays and consensus molecular typing protocols, is required for the development of quantitative microbial risk assessments and efficient control measures. More research on the epidemiology and control of HEV in pig herds is required in order to minimise the proportion of pigs that remain viraemic or carry high levels of virus in intestinal contents at the time of slaughter. Consumption of raw pig, wild boar and deer meat products should be avoided.
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Pavio N, Bagdassarian E, Pellerin M, Doceul V. Réservoirs animaux du Virus de l’Hépatite E et transmissions zoonotiques. BULLETIN DE L'ACADÉMIE NATIONALE DE MÉDECINE 2017; 201:657-670. [DOI: 10.1016/s0001-4079(19)30448-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2025]
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40
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Saint-Jacques P, Tissot-Dupont H, Colson P. Autochthonous infection with hepatitis E virus related to subtype 3a, France: a case report. Ann Hepatol 2017; 15:438-41. [PMID: 27049499 DOI: 10.5604/16652681.1198823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) recently emerged in Europe as a cause of autochthonous acute hepatitis and a porcine zoonosis. European autochthonous cases almost exclusively involved viruses of genotype 3, subtype 3a being only recently reported in France, from farm pigs. We report an autochthonous human infection with a HEV related to subtype 3a in Southeastern France. A 55-year-old human immunodeficiency virus-infected man presented liver cytolysis in June 2014. HEV RNA was detected in serum and three months later, anti-HEV IgM and IgG were positive whereas HEV RNA was no more detectable in serum. No biological or clinical complication did occur. HEV phylogeny based on two capsid gene fragments showed clustering of sequences obtained from the case-patient with HEV-3a, mean nucleotide identity being 91.7 and 91.3% with their 10 best GenBank matches that were obtained in Japan, South Korea, USA, Canada, Germany and Hungria from humans, pigs and a mongoose. Identity between HEV sequence obtained here and HEV-3a sequences obtained at our laboratory from farm pigs sampled in 2012 in Southeastern France was only 90.2-91.4%. Apart from these pig sequences, best hits from France were of subtypes 3i, 3f, or undefined. The patient consumed barely cooked wild-boar meat; no other risk factor for HEV infection was documented. In Europe, HEV-3a has been described in humans in England and Portugal, in wild boars in Germany, and in pigs in Germany, the Netherlands, and, recently, France. These findings suggest to gain a better knowledge of HEV-3a circulation in France.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pauline Saint-Jacques
- Institut Hospitalo-Universitaire (IHU) Méditerranée Infection, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille, Centre Hospitalo-Universitaire Timone, Pôle des Maladies Infectieuses et Tropicales Clinique et Biologique, Fédération de Bactériologie-Hygiène-Virologie, Marseille, France
| | - Hervé Tissot-Dupont
- Institut Hospitalo-Universitaire (IHU) Méditerranée Infection, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille, Centre Hospitalo-Universitaire Timone, Pôle des Maladies Infectieuses et Tropicales Clinique et Biologique, Fédération de Bactériologie-Hygiène-Virologie, Marseille, France; Institut Hospitalo-Universitaire (IHU) Méditerranée Infection, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille, Centre Hospitalo-Universitaire Conception, Pôle des Maladies Infectieuses et Tropicales Clinique et Biologique, Service de Maladies Infectieuses, Marseille, France
| | - Philippe Colson
- Institut Hospitalo-Universitaire (IHU) Méditerranée Infection, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille, Centre Hospitalo-Universitaire Timone, Pôle des Maladies Infectieuses et Tropicales Clinique et Biologique, Fédération de Bactériologie-Hygiène-Virologie, Marseille, France; Institut Hospitalo-Universitaire (IHU) Méditerranée Infection, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille, Centre Hospitalo-Universitaire Conception, Pôle des Maladies Infectieuses et Tropicales Clinique et Biologique, Service de Maladies Infectieuses, Marseille, France
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Weiner M, Tokarska-Rodak M, Plewik D, Pańczuk A, Szepeluk A, Krajewska M. Preliminary study on the detection of hepatitis E virus (HEV) antibodies in pigs and wild boars in Poland. J Vet Res 2016. [DOI: 10.1515/jvetres-2016-0057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Introduction: Although HEV infection in pigs does not pose a major economic risk to pork production, the risk of zoonotic transmission to humans is an important aspect of public health. HEV genotype 3 infections were reported in developed countries in individuals who had consumed raw meat or meat products from deer, wild boars, or pigs. The aim of the study was the analysis of the occurrence of HEV-specific antibodies among wild boars and domestic pigs in Poland. Material and Methods: A total of 290 samples from wild boars and 143 samples from pigs were tested. The antibodies were tested by ELISA. Results: The presence of anti-HEV IgG was demonstrated in 44.1% of pigs and 31.0% of wild boars. Anti-HEV IgG antibodies were detected in 1.4% of samples from pigs and in 2.1% of samples from wild boars at borderline level. The statistical analysis shows significant differences in the positive results for anti-HEV IgG between the groups of pigs and wild boars (P = 0.0263). Conclusion: Regular surveillance of the occurrence of HEV in swine and wild boars should be performed in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcin Weiner
- Department of Health Poland
- Department of Microbiology, National Veterinary Research Institute, 24-100 Pulawy, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Tokarska-Rodak
- Department of Health, Pope John Paul II State School of Higher Education in Biala Podlaska, 21-500 Biala Podlaska, Poland
| | - Dorota Plewik
- Innovation Research Centre, Pope John Paul II State School of Higher Education in Biala Podlaska, 21-500 Biala Podlaska, Poland
| | - Anna Pańczuk
- Department of Health, Pope John Paul II State School of Higher Education in Biala Podlaska, 21-500 Biala Podlaska, Poland
| | - Adam Szepeluk
- Innovation Research Centre, Pope John Paul II State School of Higher Education in Biala Podlaska, 21-500 Biala Podlaska, Poland
| | - Monika Krajewska
- Department of Microbiology, National Veterinary Research Institute, 24-100 Pulawy, Poland
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Hepatitis E Virus in Industrialized Countries: The Silent Threat. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2016; 2016:9838041. [PMID: 28070522 PMCID: PMC5192302 DOI: 10.1155/2016/9838041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2016] [Revised: 11/07/2016] [Accepted: 11/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is the main cause of acute viral hepatitis worldwide. Its presence in developing countries has been documented for decades. Developed countries were supposed to be virus-free and initially only imported cases were detected in those areas. However, sporadic and autochthonous cases of HEV infection have been identified and studies reveal that the virus is worldwide spread. Chronic hepatitis and multiple extrahepatic manifestations have also been associated with HEV. We review the data from European countries, where human, animal, and environmental data have been collected since the 90s. In Europe, autochthonous HEV strains were first detected in the late 90s and early 2000s. Since then, serological data have shown that the virus infects quite frequently the European population and that some species, such as pigs, wild boars, and deer, are reservoirs. HEV strains can be isolated from environmental samples and reach the food chain, as shown by the detection of the virus in mussels and in contaminated pork products as sausages or meat. All these data highlight the need of studies directed to control the sources of HEV to protect immunocompromised individuals that seem the weakest link of the HEV epidemiology in industrialized regions.
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43
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Geng Y, Wang Y. Transmission of Hepatitis E Virus. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2016; 948:89-112. [PMID: 27738981 DOI: 10.1007/978-94-024-0942-0_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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44
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Kang YH, Cong W, Zhang XY, Wang CF, Shan XF, Qian AD. Hepatitis E virus seroprevalence among farmers, veterinarians and control subjects in Jilin province, Shandong province and Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China. J Med Virol 2016; 89:872-877. [PMID: 27664799 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.24693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
China is commonly considered to be a HEV-endemic region but limited epidemiological data for HEV among farmers and veterinarians are available. Thus, a case-control study was carried out to detect the seroprevalence and assess potential risk factors associated with the acquisition of HEV infection by farmers and veterinarians in China from July 2013 to May 2015. Three hundred veterinarians and 600 farmers recruited from Jilin province, Shandong province, and Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region and 600 control subjects matched by gender, age, and residence were detected for the presence of anti-HEV IgG and IgM antibodies using enzyme immunoassays. The seroprevalences of HEV infection in farmers, veterinarians, and control subjects were 34.8%, 26.7%, and 20.2%, respectively. Farmers (P < 0.001) and veterinarians (P = 0.027) have significantly higher seroprevalence than control subjects. The highest seroprevalence of HEV infection was detected in swine farmers (49.1%) and the lowest seroprevalence was found in cattle farmers (26.5%). In veterinarians, farm animal veterinarians have a higher seroprevalence than pet veterinarians, but the difference was not significant (P > 0.05). Residence area, contact with swine and exposure with soil were significantly associated with HEV infection in the study farmers; contact with swine and source of drinking water were significantly associated with HEV infection in the study veterinarians. These results implied the high prevalence of HEV and the considerable potential for the dissemination of HEV infection in farmers and veterinarians in China. J. Med. Virol. 89:872-877, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan-Huan Kang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, Jilin Province, PR China
| | - Wei Cong
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, Jilin Province, PR China.,College of Marine Science, Shandong University at Weihai, Weihai, Shandong Province, PR China
| | - Xiang-Yan Zhang
- Affilliated Hospital of Medical College, Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, PR China
| | - Chun-Feng Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, Jilin Province, PR China
| | - Xiao-Feng Shan
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, Jilin Province, PR China
| | - Ai-Dong Qian
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, Jilin Province, PR China
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45
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Doceul V, Bagdassarian E, Demange A, Pavio N. Zoonotic Hepatitis E Virus: Classification, Animal Reservoirs and Transmission Routes. Viruses 2016; 8:v8100270. [PMID: 27706110 PMCID: PMC5086606 DOI: 10.3390/v8100270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 182] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2016] [Accepted: 09/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
During the past ten years, several new hepatitis E viruses (HEVs) have been identified in various animal species. In parallel, the number of reports of autochthonous hepatitis E in Western countries has increased as well, raising the question of what role these possible animal reservoirs play in human infections. The aim of this review is to present the recent discoveries of animal HEVs and their classification within the Hepeviridae family, their zoonotic and species barrier crossing potential, and possible use as models to study hepatitis E pathogenesis. Lastly, this review describes the transmission pathways identified from animal sources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginie Doceul
- French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health & Safety (ANSES), Animal Health Laboratory, UMR (joint research unit) 1161 Virology, 94701 Maisons-Alfort, France.
- French National Institute for Agricultural Research (INRA), UMR (joint research unit) 1161 Virology, 94700 Maisons-Alfort, France.
- Association of Universities and High Education Institutions (ComUE), Paris-Est Créteil Val-de-Marne University, National Veterinary School, UMR (joint research unit) 1161 Virology, 94700 Maisons-Alfort, France.
| | - Eugénie Bagdassarian
- French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health & Safety (ANSES), Animal Health Laboratory, UMR (joint research unit) 1161 Virology, 94701 Maisons-Alfort, France.
- French National Institute for Agricultural Research (INRA), UMR (joint research unit) 1161 Virology, 94700 Maisons-Alfort, France.
- Association of Universities and High Education Institutions (ComUE), Paris-Est Créteil Val-de-Marne University, National Veterinary School, UMR (joint research unit) 1161 Virology, 94700 Maisons-Alfort, France.
| | - Antonin Demange
- French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health & Safety (ANSES), Animal Health Laboratory, UMR (joint research unit) 1161 Virology, 94701 Maisons-Alfort, France.
- French National Institute for Agricultural Research (INRA), UMR (joint research unit) 1161 Virology, 94700 Maisons-Alfort, France.
- Association of Universities and High Education Institutions (ComUE), Paris-Est Créteil Val-de-Marne University, National Veterinary School, UMR (joint research unit) 1161 Virology, 94700 Maisons-Alfort, France.
| | - Nicole Pavio
- French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health & Safety (ANSES), Animal Health Laboratory, UMR (joint research unit) 1161 Virology, 94701 Maisons-Alfort, France.
- French National Institute for Agricultural Research (INRA), UMR (joint research unit) 1161 Virology, 94700 Maisons-Alfort, France.
- Association of Universities and High Education Institutions (ComUE), Paris-Est Créteil Val-de-Marne University, National Veterinary School, UMR (joint research unit) 1161 Virology, 94700 Maisons-Alfort, France.
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46
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Mesquita JR, Oliveira RMS, Coelho C, Vieira-Pinto M, Nascimento MSJ. Hepatitis E Virus in Sylvatic and Captive Wild Boar from Portugal. Transbound Emerg Dis 2016; 63:574-578. [PMID: 25405272 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.12297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2014] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a zoonotic agent today considered a major Public Health issue in industrialized countries. HEV strains belonging to zoonotic genotype 3 are widely present in swine, being today considered important reservoirs for human disease. Unlike in swine, only scarce data are available on the circulation of HEV in wild boar. This study describes the detection and molecular characterization of HEV in livers from sylvatic wild boar hunted in Portugal and destined for consumption. Additionally, the detection of HEV in stools of a confined wild boar population also destined for consumption is also described. A total of 80 liver samples collected during the hunting season of 2011/2012 and 40 stools collected in February 2012 from a wild boar breeding farm in Portugal were tested by a nested broad-spectrum RT-PCR assay targeting open reading frame (ORF) 1. Twenty livers (25.0%) and 4 stools (10%) were positive for HEV. Phylogenetic analysis showed that all strains clustered with sequences classified as HEV genotype 3 subgenotype e. To our knowledge, this is the first report documenting the occurrence and molecular analysis of HEV in sylvatic and captive wild boar destined for human consumption in Portugal. This report demonstrates for the first time the circulation of HEV in wildlife reservoirs of Portugal adding knowledge to the epidemiology of HEV in wild boar populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- J R Mesquita
- Escola Superior Agrária de Viseu, Instituto Politécnico de Viseu, Viseu, Portugal
- CIBIO/UP, Centro de Investigação em Biodiversidade e Recursos Genéticos, Universidade do Porto, Vairão, Portugal
| | - R M S Oliveira
- Laboratório de Microbiologia, Faculdade de Farmácia da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - C Coelho
- Escola Superior Agrária de Viseu, Instituto Politécnico de Viseu, Viseu, Portugal
- CIBIO/UP, Centro de Investigação em Biodiversidade e Recursos Genéticos, Universidade do Porto, Vairão, Portugal
| | - M Vieira-Pinto
- Centro de Ciência Animal e Veterinária, Universidade de Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, Vila Real, Portugal
- Departamento de Ciências Veterinárias, Escola de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias Universidade de Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, Vila Real, Portugal
| | - M S J Nascimento
- CIBIO/UP, Centro de Investigação em Biodiversidade e Recursos Genéticos, Universidade do Porto, Vairão, Portugal
- Laboratório de Microbiologia, Faculdade de Farmácia da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
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47
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Aydin H, Uyanik MH, Karamese M, Timurkan MO. Seroprevalence of hepatitis E virus in animal workers in nonporcine consumption region of Turkey. Future Virol 2016. [DOI: 10.2217/fvl-2016-0075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Aim: Our aim was to investigate the prevalence of hepatitis E virus (HEV) and its potential zoonotic role in occupational groups that come into direct contact with domestic ruminants and chickens. Materials & methods: The seroprevalence of the HEV IgG antibody was determined on 92 samples using a commercial ELISA test kit. Results: The overall rate of HEV-IgG seroprevalence in the risk group was 35.9%. The control group seroprevalence was found to be 4.4%. Conclusion: HEV infection is a potential occupational hazard for people who work in jobs directly related to animals, with the exception of veterinarians, who use protective equipments to prevent the infection. Further studies should be performed with increased observation of specific risk groups in order to understand the local epidemiology and guide vaccination strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hakan Aydin
- Department of Virology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ataturk University, Erzurum, Turkey
| | | | - Murat Karamese
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Kafkas University, Kars, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Ozkan Timurkan
- Department of Virology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ataturk University, Erzurum, Turkey
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48
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Kantala T, Kinnunen PM, Oristo S, Jokelainen P, Vapalahti O, Maunula L. Hepatitis E Virus Antibodies in Finnish Veterinarians. Zoonoses Public Health 2016; 64:232-238. [PMID: 27621202 DOI: 10.1111/zph.12312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2015] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
We investigated hepatitis E virus (HEV) infections in Finnish veterinarians engaged in different practice specialties and evaluated the effect of different background factors on HEV exposure by examining total HEV antibodies in samples collected from the participants of the 2009 National Veterinary Congress in Helsinki, Finland. Finnish veterinarians commonly have total HEV antibodies with seroprevalence of 10.2%. Of the non-veterinarians, 5.8% were seropositive. Increasing age was associated with HEV seropositivity, and, surprisingly, the highest HEV seroprevalence (17.8%) among veterinarians was detected among small animal practitioners. Although no positive correlation between swine contacts and HEV seropositivity was found, 22.7% of veterinarians who had had needle stick by a needle that had previously been injected into a pig versus 9.0% of those who had not were seropositive, even though the finding was statistically non-significant (P = 0.07). Our results suggest that, although contact with swine is a known risk factor for HEV infection, the sources of HEV infections are probably numerous, including travelling abroad and possibly also other reservoirs of HEV than pigs.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Kantala
- Department of Food Hygiene and Environmental Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - P M Kinnunen
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Department of Virology, Haartman Institute, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - S Oristo
- Department of Food Hygiene and Environmental Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - P Jokelainen
- Department of Food Hygiene and Environmental Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Department of Basic Veterinary Sciences and Population Medicine, Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu, Estonia
| | - O Vapalahti
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Department of Virology, Haartman Institute, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Department of Virology and Immunology, HUSLAB, Helsinki University Central Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - L Maunula
- Department of Food Hygiene and Environmental Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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49
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Mansuy JM, Gallian P, Dimeglio C, Saune K, Arnaud C, Pelletier B, Morel P, Legrand D, Tiberghien P, Izopet J. A nationwide survey of hepatitis E viral infection in French blood donors. Hepatology 2016; 63:1145-54. [PMID: 27008201 DOI: 10.1002/hep.28436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 164] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2015] [Accepted: 12/26/2015] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Most cases of hepatitis E viral (HEV) infection in developed countries are autochthonous. Nevertheless, the reported seroprevalence of HEV varies greatly depending on the geographical area and the performance of the immunoassay used. We used validated assays to determine the prevalence of anti-HEV immunoglobulin G (IgG) and IgM among 10,569 French blood donors living in mainland France and three overseas areas. Epidemiological information was collected using a specific questionnaire. We found an overall IgG seroprevalence of 22.4% (8%-86.4%) depending on the geographical area (P < 0.001). The presence of anti-HEV IgG was associated with increasing age (P < 0.001) and eating pork meat (P = 0.03), pork liver sausages (P < 0.001), game meat (P < 0.01), offal (P < 0.001), and oysters (P = 0.02). Conversely, drinking bottled water was associated with a lower rate of anti-HEV IgG (P = 0.02). Overall IgM seroprevalence was 1% (0%-4.6%). The frequency of anti-HEV IgM was higher in donors living in a high anti-HEV IgG seroprevalence area (1.9% versus 0.7%, P < 0.001) and in those eating pork liver sausage (1.4% versus 0.7%, P < 0.01), pâté (1% versus 0.4, P = 0.04), and wild boar (1.3% versus 0.7%, P < 0.01). CONCLUSION HEV is endemic in France and hyperendemic in some areas; eating habits alone cannot totally explain the exposure to HEV, and contaminated water could contribute to the epidemiology of HEV infection in France.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean Michel Mansuy
- Laboratoire de Virologie, Institut Fédératif de Biologie, Centre Hospitalier et Universitaire, Toulouse, France
| | - Pierre Gallian
- Etablissement Français du Sang, La Plaine-Saint-Denis, France.,Aix Marseille Université, IRD French Institute of Research for Development, EHESP French School of Public Health, UMR_D 190 "Emergence des Pathologies Virales", Institut Hospitalo Universitaire Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
| | - Chloé Dimeglio
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale Unité 1027, Université Toulouse III, Toulouse, France.,Unité de soutien méthodologique à la recherche, Centre Hospitalier et Universitaire, Toulouse, France
| | - Karine Saune
- Laboratoire de Virologie, Institut Fédératif de Biologie, Centre Hospitalier et Universitaire, Toulouse, France.,Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale Unité 1043, Université Toulouse III, Toulouse, France
| | - Catherine Arnaud
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale Unité 1027, Université Toulouse III, Toulouse, France.,Unité de soutien méthodologique à la recherche, Centre Hospitalier et Universitaire, Toulouse, France
| | | | - Pascal Morel
- Etablissement Français du Sang, La Plaine-Saint-Denis, France
| | | | - Pierre Tiberghien
- Etablissement Français du Sang, La Plaine-Saint-Denis, France.,Université de Franche-Comté, Inserm, Etablissement Français du Sang, UMR 1098, Besançon, France
| | - Jacques Izopet
- Laboratoire de Virologie, Institut Fédératif de Biologie, Centre Hospitalier et Universitaire, Toulouse, France.,Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale Unité 1043, Université Toulouse III, Toulouse, France
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50
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Žele D, Barry AF, Hakze-van der Honing RW, Vengušt G, van der Poel WHM. Prevalence of Anti-Hepatitis E Virus Antibodies and First Detection of Hepatitis E Virus in Wild Boar in Slovenia. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2016; 16:71-4. [PMID: 26757050 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2015.1819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E is an emerging zoonotic disease caused by hepatitis E virus (HEV). In this study, we investigated HEV presence in a wild boar (Sus scrofa) population of Slovenia. A total of 288 wild boar serum samples were collected throughout the country, and HEV infection was investigated by serology, using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and by HEV RNA detection using a real-time PCR assay. Antibodies against HEV were detected in 30.2% (87/288) of animals tested, whereas HEV RNA was detected in only one sample. This is the first evidence of HEV presence in the wild boar population in Slovenia, and these results suggest that these animals are part of the HEV epidemiological cycle in the country.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Žele
- 1 Institute for Breeding and Health Care of Wild Animals, Fishes and Bees, Veterinary Faculty University of Ljubljana , Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Aline F Barry
- 2 Central Veterinary Institute of Wageningen University and Research Centre , Lelystad, the Netherlands
| | | | - Gorazd Vengušt
- 1 Institute for Breeding and Health Care of Wild Animals, Fishes and Bees, Veterinary Faculty University of Ljubljana , Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Wim H M van der Poel
- 2 Central Veterinary Institute of Wageningen University and Research Centre , Lelystad, the Netherlands
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