Shifts in the rates and levels of antibody to hepatitis A virus associated with hepatitis A infection in children's communities

Enterically Transmitted Non-A, Non-B Hepatitis and the Discovery of Hepatitis E Virus

The recognition of hepatitis E as a discreet disease entity in the late 1970s followed the development of serological tests for hepatitis A and the discovery that large waterborne outbreaks of hepatitis in India were not caused by hepatitis A virus (HAV). These "enterically transmitted non-A, non-B hepatitis" outbreaks had distinctive epidemiologic features, including the highest attack rates among young adults, little secondary household transmission of infection, and severe disease in pregnant women. The responsible agent, hepatitis E virus (HEV), was identified several years later in extracts of feces from a self-inoculated virologist. Multiple genetically related HEV genotypes are now known to exist, two of which are common in domestic swine herds and the cause of sporadic cases of acute hepatitis in economically well-developed countries. HEV genotypes possess impressive genetic and biologic diversity, and present many unanswered questions concerning their natural host range, potential for zoonotic transmission, and disease pathogenesis.

An outbreak of hepatitis A in Southern Italy: the case for vaccinating food handlers

We report an outbreak of hepatitis A that occurred in the city of Bari (Apulian region) in June 2002. Overall, 26 cases were observed over a 4-week period. These were traced back to the index case, a food handler who prepared various food products for sale over the counter at a store in the district (OR 5.36, CI 95% 1.58-19.25). Laboratory investigations confirmed that the outbreak was due to a point source and identified a new genotype IB variant. There is a possible indication for administration of hepatitis A vaccine to food handlers, although further evidence of an acceptable cost-benefit ratio needs to be ascertained.

Prevalence of hepatitis A virus infection among sewage workers in Singapore

To determine whether or not occupational exposure to sewage is associated with a higher seroprevalence of hepatitis A virus (HAV) infection, 600 sewage workers in Singapore were tested for total (IgG and IgM) antibody to HAV by enzyme immunoassay. Using logistic regression with stepwise procedure, the adjusted seroprevalence of sewage workers was 2.2 times higher than that of another non-occupationally exposed population group. Seroprevalence was significantly correlated with age and educational levels, the association being independent of the occupational association. The epidemiological data in the study show that sewage workers have an increased occupational risk of acquiring HAV infection and should be protected by active immunization.

Policies for control of communicable disease in day care centres

A survey was carried out to identify the availability and quality of guidelines for the prevention and control of communicable disease and procedures in use in child day care centres within the South West Thames Regional Health Authority. A sample of 50 day care centres was investigated including those funded by social services and privately funded day care centres. Policies for the prevention and control of communicable disease for children and staff showed a wide variation between different centres. Exclusion criteria were unclear especially in relation to carriers of the hepatitis B virus and HIV positive children. Channels for reporting and seeking advice were inconsistent. It is recommended that clear and up to date written guidelines on the prevention and control of communicable diseases should be available in all day care centres with clear indications of good practice and channels for reporting and advice. It is desirable that guidelines are agreed by the different health and local authorities throughout the region.