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Ferri G, Olivieri V, Vergara A. Human enteric viruses' detection in mussels ( Mytilus galloprovincialis) farmed in the central Adriatic Sea. Ital J Food Saf 2024; 13:12349. [PMID: 39301144 PMCID: PMC11411409 DOI: 10.4081/ijfs.2024.12349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 09/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Human enteric viruses, such as hepatitis A virus (HAV), hepatitis E virus (HEV), and norovirus genogroups I and II (NoVGI and NoVGII), cause infections, and it has been largely demonstrated that mussels play an important role if consumed as raw or undercooked food matrices. This study aimed to investigate, through qualitative and quantitative biomolecular assays, the detection of partial genomic regions belonging to the most relevant enteropathogenic viruses for humans (HAV, HEV, NoVGI and NoVGII) in mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis) farmed along the coasts of two Italian regions on the central Adriatic Sea: Abruzzo (Casalbordino, Chieti) and Molise (Termoli, Campobasso). A total of 425 animals were sampled, and the respective georeferentiations were registered. A total of 85 pools, each composed of five sub-jects/aliquots, were formed (22 from Abruzzo and 63 from Molise regions). This step was followed by homogenization and RNA extraction, and then the biomolecular assays [nested reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and real-time reverse transcription-quantitative PCR] were performed. 1.17% of the pool was positive for HAV RNA detection (102 copies/mL), 9.41% for HEV (102-103 copies/µL), 2.35% for NoVGI (101 copies/µL), and no pool was positive for NoVGII. This study demonstrated the human enteric viruses' presence in mussels farmed in a low-investigated marine area. Based on a one-health point of view, this paper aims to enforce the importance of biomolecular and epidemiological screenings as surveillance systems to guarantee human, animal, and environmental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gianluigi Ferri
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Post-Graduate Specialization School in Food Inspection "G. Tiecco", University of Teramo, Piano d'Accio, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Olivieri
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Post-Graduate Specialization School in Food Inspection "G. Tiecco", University of Teramo, Piano d'Accio, Italy
| | - Alberto Vergara
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Post-Graduate Specialization School in Food Inspection "G. Tiecco", University of Teramo, Piano d'Accio, Italy
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2
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La Bella G, Basanisi MG, Nobili G, D’Antuono AM, Suffredini E, La Salandra G. Duplex Droplet Digital PCR Assay for Quantification of Hepatitis E Virus in Food. Viruses 2024; 16:413. [PMID: 38543778 PMCID: PMC10975721 DOI: 10.3390/v16030413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2024] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) represents an emerging risk in industrialized countries where the consumption of contaminated food plays a pivotal role. Quantitative real-time RT-PCR (RT-qPCR) is one of the most suitable methods for the detection and quantification of viruses in food. Nevertheless, quantification using RT-qPCR has limitations. Droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) provides the precise quantification of nucleic acids without the need for a standard curve and a reduction in the effect on virus quantification due to the presence of inhibitors. The objectives of the present work were (i) to develop a method for the absolute quantification of HEV in swine tissues based on ddPCR technology and provide internal process control for recovery assessment and (ii) to evaluate the performance of the method by analyzing a selection of naturally contaminated wild boar muscle samples previously tested using RT-qPCR. The method was optimized using a set of in vitro synthesized HEV RNA and quantified dsDNA. The limit of detection of the developed ddPCR assay was 0.34 genome copies/µL. The analysis of the wild boar samples confirmed the validity of the ddPCR assay. The duplex ddPCR method showed no reduction in efficiency compared to individual assays. The method developed in the present study could represent a sensitive assay for the detection and absolute quantification of HEV RNA in food samples with the advantage of presenting the co-amplification of internal process control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gianfranco La Bella
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Puglia e della Basilicata, Via Manfredonia 20, 71121 Foggia, Italy (G.N.); (A.M.D.); (G.L.S.)
| | - Maria Grazia Basanisi
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Puglia e della Basilicata, Via Manfredonia 20, 71121 Foggia, Italy (G.N.); (A.M.D.); (G.L.S.)
| | - Gaia Nobili
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Puglia e della Basilicata, Via Manfredonia 20, 71121 Foggia, Italy (G.N.); (A.M.D.); (G.L.S.)
| | - Anna Mattea D’Antuono
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Puglia e della Basilicata, Via Manfredonia 20, 71121 Foggia, Italy (G.N.); (A.M.D.); (G.L.S.)
| | - Elisabetta Suffredini
- Department of Food Safety Nutrition and Veterinary Public Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy;
| | - Giovanna La Salandra
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Puglia e della Basilicata, Via Manfredonia 20, 71121 Foggia, Italy (G.N.); (A.M.D.); (G.L.S.)
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3
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Veneri C, Brandtner D, Mancini P, Bonanno Ferraro G, Iaconelli M, Del Giudice C, Ciccaglione AR, Bruni R, Equestre M, Marcantonio C, Suffredini E, La Rosa G. Detection and full genomic sequencing of rare hepatitis E virus genotype 4d in Italian wastewater, undetected by clinical surveillance. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 913:169698. [PMID: 38160838 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.169698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Hepatitis E is a liver disease caused by the hepatitis E virus (HEV), primarily transmitted through contaminated water or food. There are four different HEV genotypes in humans, with genotypes 1 and 2 being the most widespread. Genotypes 3 and 4 are found in animals and can also infect humans. Genotype 4 is prevalent in Asia, mainly in China. In Italy, only one outbreak of HEV-4 has been documented, which occurred in 2011, involving five patients. In 2013, HEV G4 was also detected in a pig farm. Since then, no further evidence of HEV genotype 4 has been found in the country. This study describes the first detection of HEV genotype 4, subtype d, in wastewater in central Italy, despite a lack of any clinical case reported in the area. By using a multiplex PCR protocol and two sequencing strategies, Illumina and ONT, the virus's complete genome was sequenced and characterized as subtype 4d. These findings shed light on the potential of environmental surveillance for infectious agents to improve our understanding of epidemiology and support public health efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Veneri
- National Center for Water Safety (CeNSiA), Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - D Brandtner
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - P Mancini
- National Center for Water Safety (CeNSiA), Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - G Bonanno Ferraro
- National Center for Water Safety (CeNSiA), Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - M Iaconelli
- National Center for Water Safety (CeNSiA), Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - C Del Giudice
- National Center for Water Safety (CeNSiA), Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - A R Ciccaglione
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - R Bruni
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - M Equestre
- Department of Neurosciences, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - C Marcantonio
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - E Suffredini
- Department of Food Safety, Nutrition and Veterinary Public Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - G La Rosa
- National Center for Water Safety (CeNSiA), Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy.
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4
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Palombieri A, Di Profio F, Sarchese V, Fruci P, Suffredini E, Martella V, Veneri C, Bonanno Ferraro G, Mancini P, La Rosa G, Di Martino B. Surveillance for rat hepatitis E in wastewater networks, Italy. Microbiol Spectr 2023; 11:e0267523. [PMID: 37850788 PMCID: PMC10714833 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.02675-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection constitutes a significant health problem worldwide. In recent years, in addition to the zoonotic HEV3 and HEV4, emerging highly divergent hepevirus of rat origin (rat HEV [RHEV]) has been associated with human acute and chronic hepatitis. As environmental surveillance can be a complementary tool to explore emerging viruses of human and rodent origin, we investigated the epidemiology and the genetic variability of RHEV targeting 14 wastewater treatment plants in an Italian geographic area considered a hot spot for HEV infection in humans. Our results revealed that RHEV is a significant component of the wastewater microbiota with viral RNA detected in 43.9% of the specimens tested, adding further evidence to the need to investigate more in depth the real burden of RHEV infections in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Palombieri
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Teramo, Località Piano d'Accio, Teramo, Italy
| | - Federica Di Profio
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Teramo, Località Piano d'Accio, Teramo, Italy
| | - Vittorio Sarchese
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Teramo, Località Piano d'Accio, Teramo, Italy
| | - Paola Fruci
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Teramo, Località Piano d'Accio, Teramo, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Suffredini
- Department of Food Safety, Nutrition and Veterinary Public Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena, Rome, Italy
| | - Vito Martella
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Valenzano, Italy
| | - Carolina Veneri
- Department of Environment and Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Pamela Mancini
- Department of Environment and Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppina La Rosa
- Department of Environment and Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Barbara Di Martino
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Teramo, Località Piano d'Accio, Teramo, Italy
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5
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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] [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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6
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Caballero-Gómez J, Rivero-Juarez A, Beato-Benítez A, Fernández-Maldonado C, Domingo M, García-Párraga D, Fernández A, Sierra E, Ulrich RG, Martínez-Nevado E, Sierra-Arqueros C, Canales-Merino R, Rivero A, García-Bocanegra I. Hepatitis E Virus Infections in Free-Ranging and Captive Cetaceans, Spain, 2011-2022. Emerg Infect Dis 2022; 28:2543-2547. [PMID: 36417998 PMCID: PMC9707570 DOI: 10.3201/eid2812.221188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Epidemiologic surveillance of hepatitis E virus in over 300 free-ranging and captive cetaceans in waters off Spain revealed extensive exposure to this pathogen. We suggest the persistent and widespread presence of hepatitis E in the marine environment off the coast of Spain may be driven by terrestrial sources of contamination.
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7
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Hepatitis A and E Viruses in Mussels from Cherrat Estuary in Morocco: Detection by Real-Time Reverse Transcription PCR Analysis. Adv Virol 2022; 2022:8066356. [DOI: 10.1155/2022/8066356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to evaluate hepatitis A virus (HAV) and hepatitis E virus (HEV) contamination in mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis) from Cherrat estuary (Moroccan Atlantic Coast), Morocco. In total, 52 samples (n = 12 mussels/each) were collected at four sites in the estuary, monthly, between March 2019 and March 2020. HAV and HEV were detected by real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) according to the ISO/TS 15216 method. HAV was detected in 46.15% of analyzed samples. Conversely, HEV was not detected in any sample. Moreover, the HAV detection rate was significantly associated with seasonal rainfall variations. This qualitative study on HAV and HEV contamination highlights the interest of studying mussel samples from wild areas. As HAV presence in mussels represents a potential health risk, viral contamination surveillance of mussels is necessary to protect consumers. HAV shellfish contamination must be monitored at Cherrat estuary because of the role played by shellfish as HAV reservoirs and/or vehicles in fecal-oral HAV transmission.
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8
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Takuissu GR, Kenmoe S, Ndip L, Ebogo-Belobo JT, Kengne-Ndé C, Mbaga DS, Bowo-Ngandji A, Oyono MG, Kenfack-Momo R, Tchatchouang S, Kenfack-Zanguim J, Lontuo Fogang R, Zeuko'o Menkem E, Kame-Ngasse GI, Magoudjou-Pekam JN, Nkie Esemu S, Veneri C, Mancini P, Bonanno Ferraro G, Iaconelli M, Suffredini E, La Rosa G. Hepatitis E Virus in Water Environments: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. FOOD AND ENVIRONMENTAL VIROLOGY 2022; 14:223-235. [PMID: 36036329 PMCID: PMC9458591 DOI: 10.1007/s12560-022-09530-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is responsible for acute hepatitis in humans, through foodborne, zoonotic, and waterborne transmission routes. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of HEV in water matrices. Six categories were defined: untreated and treated wastewater, surface water (river, lake, and seawater), drinking water, groundwater, and other water environments (irrigation water, grey water, reservoir water, flood water, and effluent of pig slaughterhouse). We searched PubMed, Web of Science, Global Index Medicus, and Excerpta Medica Database. Study selection and data extraction were performed by at least two independent investigators. Heterogeneity (I2) was assessed using the χ2 test on the Cochran Q statistic and H parameter. Sources of heterogeneity were explored by subgroup analysis. This study is registered with PROSPERO, number CRD42021289116. We included 87 prevalence studies from 58 papers, 66.4% of which performed in Europe. The overall prevalence of HEV in water was 9.8% (95% CI 6.4-13.7). The prevalence was higher in untreated wastewater (15.1%) and lower in treated wastewater (3.8%) and in drinking water (4.7%). In surface water, prevalence was 7.4%, and in groundwater, the percentage of positive samples, from only one study available, was 8.3%. Overall, only 36.8% of the studies reported the genotype of HEV, with genotype 3 (HEV-3) prevalent (168 samples), followed by HEV-1 (148 sample), and HEV-4 (2 samples). High-income countries were the most represented with 59/87 studies (67.8%), while only 3/87 (3.5%) of the studies were performed in low-income countries. The overall prevalence obtained of this study was generally higher in industrialized countries. Risk of bias was low in 14.9% of the studies and moderate in 85.1%. The results of this review showed the occurrence of HEV in different waters environments also in industrialized countries with sanitation and safe water supplies. While HEV transmission to humans through water has been widely demonstrated in developing countries, it is an issue still pending in industrialized countries. Better knowledge on the source of pollution, occurrence, survival in water, and removal by water treatment is needed to unravel this transmission path.
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Affiliation(s)
- G R Takuissu
- Centre for Food, Food Security and Nutrition Research, Institute of Medical Research and Medicinal Plants Studies, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - S Kenmoe
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, University of Buea, Buea, Cameroon
| | - L Ndip
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, University of Buea, Buea, Cameroon
| | - J T Ebogo-Belobo
- Medical Research Centre, Institute of Medical Research and Medicinal Plants Studies, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - C Kengne-Ndé
- Epidemiological Surveillance, Evaluation and Research Unit, National AIDS Control Committee, Douala, Cameroon
| | - D S Mbaga
- Department of Microbiology, The University of Yaounde I, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - A Bowo-Ngandji
- Department of Microbiology, The University of Yaounde I, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - M G Oyono
- Centre for Research on Health and Priority Pathologies, Institute of Medical Research and Medicinal Plants Studies, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - R Kenfack-Momo
- Department of Biochemistry, The University of Yaounde I, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - S Tchatchouang
- Scientific Direction, Centre Pasteur du Cameroun, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - J Kenfack-Zanguim
- Department of Biochemistry, The University of Yaounde I, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - R Lontuo Fogang
- Department of Animal Biology, University of Dschang, Dschang, Cameroon
| | - E Zeuko'o Menkem
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Buea, Buea, Cameroon
| | - G I Kame-Ngasse
- Medical Research Centre, Institute of Medical Research and Medicinal Plants Studies, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | | | - S Nkie Esemu
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, University of Buea, Buea, Cameroon
| | - C Veneri
- Department of Environment and Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - P Mancini
- Department of Environment and Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - G Bonanno Ferraro
- Department of Environment and Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - M Iaconelli
- Department of Environment and Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - E Suffredini
- Department of Food Safety, Nutrition and Veterinary Public Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - G La Rosa
- Department of Environment and Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy.
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Lanrewaju AA, Enitan-Folami AM, Sabiu S, Edokpayi JN, Swalaha FM. Global public health implications of human exposure to viral contaminated water. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:981896. [PMID: 36110296 PMCID: PMC9468673 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.981896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Enteric viruses are common waterborne pathogens found in environmental water bodies contaminated with either raw or partially treated sewage discharge. Examples of these viruses include adenovirus, rotavirus, noroviruses, and other caliciviruses and enteroviruses like coxsackievirus and polioviruses. They have been linked with gastroenteritis, while some enteric viruses have also been implicated in more severe infections such as encephalitis, meningitis, hepatitis (hepatitis A and E viruses), cancer (polyomavirus), and myocarditis (enteroviruses). Therefore, this review presents information on the occurrence of enteric viruses of public health importance, diseases associated with human exposure to enteric viruses, assessment of their presence in contaminated water, and their removal in water and wastewater sources. In order to prevent illnesses associated with human exposure to viral contaminated water, we suggest the regular viral monitoring of treated wastewater before discharging it into the environment. Furthermore, we highlight the need for more research to focus on the development of more holistic disinfection methods that will inactivate waterborne viruses in municipal wastewater discharges, as this is highly needed to curtail the public health effects of human exposure to contaminated water. Moreover, such a method must be devoid of disinfection by-products that have mutagenic and carcinogenic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Saheed Sabiu
- Department of Biotechnology and Food Science, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa
| | - Joshua Nosa Edokpayi
- Water and Environmental Management Research Group, Engineering and Agriculture, University of Venda, Thohoyandou, South Africa
| | - Feroz Mahomed Swalaha
- Department of Biotechnology and Food Science, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa
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10
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Spada E, Simeoni M, Martina A, Pati I, Villano U, Adriani D, D'Angiò A, Tritarelli E, Taffon S, Bellino S, Boros S, Urciuoli R, Masiello F, Marano G, Bruni R, Pezzotti P, Ciccaglione AR, Pupella S, De Angelis V, Pisani G. Prevalence and risk factors for hepatitis E virus infection in blood donors: a nationwide survey in Italy, 2017 to 2019. EURO SURVEILLANCE : BULLETIN EUROPEEN SUR LES MALADIES TRANSMISSIBLES = EUROPEAN COMMUNICABLE DISEASE BULLETIN 2022; 27. [PMID: 35656832 PMCID: PMC9164674 DOI: 10.2807/1560-7917.es.2022.27.22.2100516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Background In high-income countries, hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection is mainly a zoonosis. However, it is also transfusion-transmissible and some countries, but not Italy, have introduced HEV screening for blood donations. Aim We assessed HEV infection prevalence and risk factors in a nationwide sample of Italian blood donors. Methods We selected 107 blood establishments (BE) distributed in the 20 Italian regions by a stratified two-stage design and invited them to participate in the study. Donors were tested for anti-HEV IgG and IgM and HEV RNA. Sociodemographic data and risk factors were collected through a questionnaire. Results Overall, 60 BE from 60 provinces in 19 Italian regions joined the study. We assessed HEV markers in 7,172 blood donors, of whom 6,235 completed the questionnaire. Overall crude and adjusted anti-HEV IgG prevalences were 8.3% and 5.5%, respectively. Overall anti-HEV IgM prevalence was 0.5%, while no blood donor was HEV RNA-positive. Anti-HEV IgG prevalence varied widely among regions (range: 1.3%–27.20%) and hyperendemic prevalences (> 40%) were detected in some provinces in two regions. Older age (AOR = 1.81; 95% CI: 1.36–2.41), foreign nationality (AOR = 2.77; 95% CI: 1.06–7.24), eating raw pork liver sausages (AOR = 2.23; 95% CI: 1.55–3.20) and raw homemade sausages (AOR = 3.63; 95% CI: 2.50–5.24) were independent infection predictors. Conclusion Italian blood donors showed a low to moderate HEV seroprevalence. High levels in some regions and/or provinces were mainly attributable to eating habits. Prevention should include avoiding consumption of raw or undercooked meat and safe production of commercial pork products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enea Spada
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Matteo Simeoni
- National Centre for the Control and Evaluation of Medicines, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Martina
- National Centre for the Control and Evaluation of Medicines, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Ilaria Pati
- Italian National Blood Centre, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Umbertina Villano
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Daniela Adriani
- National Centre for the Control and Evaluation of Medicines, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Agnese D'Angiò
- National Centre for the Control and Evaluation of Medicines, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Elena Tritarelli
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefania Taffon
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefania Bellino
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Boros
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Roberta Urciuoli
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Masiello
- Italian National Blood Centre, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Marano
- Italian National Blood Centre, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Roberto Bruni
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Patrizio Pezzotti
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Simonetta Pupella
- Italian National Blood Centre, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Giulio Pisani
- National Centre for the Control and Evaluation of Medicines, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
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11
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Occurrence of hepatitis E virus (HEV) in Calabrian wild boars. Int J Food Microbiol 2022; 371:109671. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijfoodmicro.2022.109671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Revised: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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12
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Moro O, Suffredini E, Isopi M, Tosti ME, Schembri P, Scavia G. Quantitative Methods for the Prioritization of Foods Implicated in the Transmission of Hepatititis E to Humans in Italy. Foods 2021; 11:foods11010087. [PMID: 35010213 PMCID: PMC8750432 DOI: 10.3390/foods11010087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Revised: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E is considered an emerging foodborne disease in Europe. Several types of foods are implicated in the transmission of the hepatitis E virus (HEV) to humans, in particular, pork and wild boar products. We developed a parametric stochastic model to estimate the risk of foodborne exposure to HEV in the Italian population and to rank the relevance of pork products with and without liver (PL and PNL, respectively), leafy vegetables, shellfish and raw milk in HEV transmission. Original data on HEV prevalence in different foods were obtained from a recent sampling study conducted in Italy at the retail level. Other data were obtained by publicly available sources and published literature. The model output indicated that the consumption of PNL was associated with the highest number of HEV infections in the population. However, the sensitivity analysis showed that slight variations in the consumption of PL led to an increase in the number of HEV infections much higher than PNL, suggesting that PL at an individual level are the top risky food. Uncertainty analysis underlined that further characterization of the pork products preparation and better assessment of consumption data at a regional level is critical information for fine-tuning the most risky implicated food items in Italy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ornella Moro
- Department of Food Safety, Nutrition and Veterinary Public Health, National Institute of Health, 00161 Rome, Italy; (E.S.); (G.S.)
- Department of Mathematics, University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy;
- Correspondence:
| | - Elisabetta Suffredini
- Department of Food Safety, Nutrition and Veterinary Public Health, National Institute of Health, 00161 Rome, Italy; (E.S.); (G.S.)
| | - Marco Isopi
- Department of Mathematics, University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy;
| | - Maria Elena Tosti
- National Center for Global Health, National Institute of Health, 00161 Rome, Italy;
| | - Pietro Schembri
- Regional Department for Health Activities and Epidemiological Observatory of the Sicilian Region, 90145 Palermo, Italy;
| | - Gaia Scavia
- Department of Food Safety, Nutrition and Veterinary Public Health, National Institute of Health, 00161 Rome, Italy; (E.S.); (G.S.)
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13
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Gómez-López VM, Jubinville E, Rodríguez-López MI, Trudel-Ferland M, Bouchard S, Jean J. Inactivation of Foodborne Viruses by UV Light: A Review. Foods 2021; 10:foods10123141. [PMID: 34945692 PMCID: PMC8701782 DOI: 10.3390/foods10123141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Revised: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Viruses on some foods can be inactivated by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light. This green technology has little impact on product quality and, thus, could be used to increase food safety. While its bactericidal effect has been studied extensively, little is known about the viricidal effect of UV on foods. The mechanism of viral inactivation by UV results mainly from an alteration of the genetic material (DNA or RNA) within the viral capsid and, to a lesser extent, by modifying major and minor viral proteins of the capsid. In this review, we examine the potential of UV treatment as a means of inactivating viruses on food processing surfaces and different foods. The most common foodborne viruses and their laboratory surrogates; further explanation on the inactivation mechanism and its efficacy in water, liquid foods, meat products, fruits, and vegetables; and the prospects for the commercial application of this technology are discussed. Lastly, we describe UV’s limitations and legislation surrounding its use. Based on our review of the literature, viral inactivation in water seems to be particularly effective. While consistent inactivation through turbid liquid food or the entire surface of irregular food matrices is more challenging, some treatments on different food matrices seem promising.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vicente M. Gómez-López
- Catedra Alimentos para la Salud, Universidad Católica San Antonio de Murcia, Campus de los Jerónimos, E-30107 Murcia, Spain;
| | - Eric Jubinville
- Institute of Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods, Département des Sciences des Aliments, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada; (E.J.); (M.T.-F.); (S.B.)
| | - María Isabel Rodríguez-López
- Departamento de Tecnología de la Alimentación y Nutrición, Universidad Católica San Antonio de Murcia, Campus de los Jerónimos, E-30107 Murcia, Spain;
| | - Mathilde Trudel-Ferland
- Institute of Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods, Département des Sciences des Aliments, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada; (E.J.); (M.T.-F.); (S.B.)
| | - Simon Bouchard
- Institute of Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods, Département des Sciences des Aliments, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada; (E.J.); (M.T.-F.); (S.B.)
| | - Julie Jean
- Institute of Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods, Département des Sciences des Aliments, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada; (E.J.); (M.T.-F.); (S.B.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-418-656-2131 (ext. 413849)
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14
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Eloffy MG, El-Sherif DM, Abouzid M, Elkodous MA, El-nakhas HS, Sadek RF, Ghorab MA, Al-Anazi A, El-Sayyad GS. Proposed approaches for coronaviruses elimination from wastewater: Membrane techniques and nanotechnology solutions. NANOTECHNOLOGY REVIEWS 2021; 11:1-25. [DOI: 10.1515/ntrev-2022-0001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
Abstract
Since the beginning of the third Millennium, specifically during the last 18 years, three outbreaks of diseases have been recorded caused by coronaviruses (CoVs). The latest outbreak of these diseases was Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), which has been declared by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a pandemic. For this reason, current efforts of the environmental, epidemiology scientists, engineers, and water sector professionals are ongoing to detect CoV in environmental components, especially water, and assess the relative risk of exposure to these systems and any measures needed to protect the public health, workers, and public, in general. This review presents a brief overview of CoV in water, wastewater, and surface water based on a literature search providing different solutions to keep water protected from CoV. Membrane techniques are very attractive solutions for virus elimination in water. In addition, another essential solution is nanotechnology and its applications in the detection and protection of human and water systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. G. Eloffy
- National Institute of Oceanography and Fisheries, NIOF , Cairo , Egypt
| | - Dina M. El-Sherif
- National Institute of Oceanography and Fisheries, NIOF , Cairo , Egypt
| | - Mohamed Abouzid
- Department of Physical Pharmacy and Pharmacokinetics, Poznan University of Medical Sciences , 6 Święcickiego Street , 60-781 Poznan , Poland
| | - Mohamed Abd Elkodous
- Department of Electrical and Electronic Information Engineering, Toyohashi University of Technology , Toyohashi , Aichi 441-8580 , Japan
| | | | - Rawia F. Sadek
- Chemical Maintenance Unit, Experimental Training Research Reactor Number two (ETRR-2), Egyptian Atomic Energy Authority (EAEA) , P.O. Box 13759 , Cairo , Egypt
- Drug Radiation Research Department, Drug Microbiology Laboratory, National Center for Radiation Research and Technology (NCRRT), Egyptian Atomic Energy Authority (EAEA) , P.O. Box 13759 , Nasr City, Cairo , Egypt
| | - Mohamed A. Ghorab
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention (OCSPP), Office of Pesticide Programs (OPP) , Washington , DC , USA
- Department of Animal Science, Wildlife Toxicology Laboratory, Institute for Integrative Toxicology (IIT), Michigan State University , East Lansing , MI 48824 , USA
| | - Abdulaziz Al-Anazi
- Department of Chemical Engineering, College of Engineering King Saud University (KSU) , P.O. Box 800 , Riyadh 11421 , Saudi
| | - Gharieb S. El-Sayyad
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Galala University , New Galala city , Suez , Egypt
- Drug Radiation Research Department, Drug Microbiology Laboratory, National Center for Radiation Research and Technology (NCRRT), Egyptian Atomic Energy Authority (EAEA) , P.O. Box 29 , Nasr City, Cairo , Egypt
- Chemical Engineering Department, Military Technical College (MTC), Egyptian Armed Forces , Cairo , Egypt
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15
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Hriskova K, Marosevic D, Belting A, Wenzel JJ, Carl A, Katz K. Epidemiology of Hepatitis E in 2017 in Bavaria, Germany. FOOD AND ENVIRONMENTAL VIROLOGY 2021; 13:337-346. [PMID: 33900549 PMCID: PMC8379136 DOI: 10.1007/s12560-021-09474-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Accepted: 04/03/2021] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
In the last decade, the number of reported hepatitis E virus (HEV) infections in Germany, including Bavaria, has continued to rise. In order to identify risk factors associated with HEV infection, we investigated notified hepatitis E cases from Bavaria during 2017. The project "Intensified Hepatitis E Surveillance in Bavaria" included interviews with questionnaires, collection and genotyping of stool, serum and food samples. In addition, certain risk factors were examined in a sample comparison with healthy population using univariable analysis and logistic regression. In total, 135 hepatitis E cases from Bavaria were included in the analysis. Mean age for women was 46 (range 20-74) years and 47.5 (range 20-85) for men. 56 of the cases (41.5%) were asymptomatic. Among the symptomatic cases, both men and women were equally affected with symptoms like fever (16.3%), jaundice (18.8%) and upper abdominal pain (28.2%). 145 human samples (serum, stool) and 6 food samples were collected. 15.9% of the human samples (n = 23) were positive for HEV RNA by reverse-transcription quantitative real-time PCR (RT-qPCR). Identified risk factors significantly associated with hepatitis E were sausage consumption with odds ratio 9.6 (CI 1.3-70.1), fish with OR 2.2 (CI 1.1-4.4) and cat ownership with OR 1.9 (CI 1.3-3.0) in multivariable analyses. Further investigation is needed to confirm the role of fish in HEV transmission. Autochthonous HEV genotype 3 is prevalent in Bavaria and there could be more transmission routes contributing to the spread of HEV than previously known. Undercooked meat, offal, sausages, fish, shellfish and contact with animals and pets are possible sources for infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Hriskova
- Institute for Medical Information Processing, Biometry and Epidemiology - IBE, LMU Munich, Marchioninistr. 15, 81377, Munich, Germany.
- Pettenkofer School of Public Health, Munich, Germany.
| | - D Marosevic
- Bavarian Public Health and Food Safety Authority (LGL), Veterinärstraße 2, 85764, Oberschleißheim, Germany
| | - A Belting
- Bavarian Public Health and Food Safety Authority (LGL), Veterinärstraße 2, 85764, Oberschleißheim, Germany
| | - J J Wenzel
- National Consultant Laboratory for HAV and HEV, Institute of Clinical Microbiology and Hygiene, University Medical Centre Regensburg, Franz-Josef-Strauß-Allee 11, 93053, Regensburg, Germany
| | - A Carl
- Bavarian Public Health and Food Safety Authority (LGL), Veterinärstraße 2, 85764, Oberschleißheim, Germany
| | - K Katz
- Bavarian Public Health and Food Safety Authority (LGL), Veterinärstraße 2, 85764, Oberschleißheim, Germany
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16
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Martino C, Rampacci E, Pierini I, Giammarioli M, Stefanetti V, Hyatt DR, Ianni A, Di Paolo G, Coletti M, Passamonti F. Detection of anti-HEV antibodies and RNA of HEV in pigs from a hyperendemic Italian region with high human seroprevalence. Eur J Public Health 2021; 31:68-72. [PMID: 32705126 DOI: 10.1093/eurpub/ckaa112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pigs are considered the main reservoir of genotypes 3 and 4 of hepatitis E virus (HEV), which is the major cause of acute hepatitis of viral origin in humans worldwide. An increasing number of autochthonous HEV infections have been observed in recent years in industrialized countries, most likely as a result of zoonotic transmission through the consumption of raw or undercooked meat products. METHODS Two hundred and thirty-three blood and liver samples were collected at four different local slaughterhouses from domestic pigs bred in Abruzzo, a region of south-central Italy, where there is the highest human seroprevalence to HEV compared with the rest of Italy. An indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit was used for detecting anti-HEV IgG in the sera, while the presence of HEV RNA was investigated by performing a real-time reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). RESULTS Between 87.3% and 100% of swine serum samples collected in different slaughterhouses of Abruzzo were positive for anti-HEV antibodies. Conversely, none of the liver samples collected from the same animals were positive for HEV by real-time RT-PCR. CONCLUSIONS The hypothesis of foodborne zoonotic transmission from local pigs as responsible for the hyperendemic status of Abruzzo cannot be corroborated. However, the high seroprevalence observed in pigs indicates that HEV is highly circulating in these territories. We propose to further investigate the role of wild fauna and trade in carrier pigs, and the maintenance of HEV virulence in the environment and meat supply chain to shed light on the possible sources of human infection and the degree of occupational risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camillo Martino
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Elisa Rampacci
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Ilaria Pierini
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell'Umbria e delle Marche, "Togo Rosati", Perugia, Italy
| | - Monica Giammarioli
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell'Umbria e delle Marche, "Togo Rosati", Perugia, Italy
| | | | - Doreene R Hyatt
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Pathology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Andrea Ianni
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | | | - Mauro Coletti
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
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17
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Occurrence of Human Enteric Viruses in Shellfish along the Production and Distribution Chain in Sicily, Italy. Foods 2021; 10:foods10061384. [PMID: 34203938 PMCID: PMC8232761 DOI: 10.3390/foods10061384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Revised: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Contamination of bivalve mollusks with human pathogenic viruses represents a recognized food safety risk. Thus, monitoring programs for shellfish quality along the entire food chain could help to finally preserve the health of consumers. The aim of the present study was to provide up-to-date data on the prevalence of enteric virus contamination along the shellfish production and distribution chain in Sicily. To this end, 162 batches of mollusks were collected between 2017 and 2019 from harvesting areas, depuration and dispatch centers (n = 63), restaurants (n = 6) and retail stores (n = 93) distributed all over the island. Samples were processed according to ISO 15216 standard method, and the presence of genogroup GI and GII norovirus (NoV), hepatitis A and E viruses (HAV, HEV), rotavirus and adenovirus was investigated by real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (real-time-RT PCR), nested (RT)-PCR and molecular genotyping. Our findings show that 5.56% of samples were contaminated with at least one NoV, HAV and/or HEV. Contaminated shellfish were sampled at production sites and retail stores and their origin was traced back to Spain and several municipalities in Italy. In conclusion, our study highlights the need to implement routine monitoring programs along the whole food chain as an effective measure to prevent foodborne transmission of enteric viruses.
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18
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Treagus S, Wright C, Baker-Austin C, Longdon B, Lowther J. The Foodborne Transmission of Hepatitis E Virus to Humans. FOOD AND ENVIRONMENTAL VIROLOGY 2021; 13:127-145. [PMID: 33738770 PMCID: PMC8116281 DOI: 10.1007/s12560-021-09461-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/16/2021] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Globally, Hepatitis E virus (HEV) causes over 20 million cases worldwide. HEV is an emerging and endemic pathogen within economically developed countries, chiefly resulting from infections with genotype 3 (G3) HEV. G3 HEV is known to be a zoonotic pathogen, with a broad host range. The primary source of HEV within more economically developed countries is considered to be pigs, and consumption of pork products is a significant risk factor and known transmission route for the virus to humans. However, other foods have also been implicated in the transmission of HEV to humans. This review consolidates the information available regarding transmission of HEV and looks to identify gaps where further research is required to better understand how HEV is transmitted to humans through food.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Treagus
- Biosciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Penryn Campus, Penryn, Cornwall, UK.
- Centre for Environment Fisheries and Aquaculture Science, Barrack Road, Weymouth, Dorset, DT4 8UB, UK.
| | | | - Craig Baker-Austin
- Centre for Environment Fisheries and Aquaculture Science, Barrack Road, Weymouth, Dorset, DT4 8UB, UK
| | - Ben Longdon
- Biosciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Penryn Campus, Penryn, Cornwall, UK
| | - James Lowther
- Centre for Environment Fisheries and Aquaculture Science, Barrack Road, Weymouth, Dorset, DT4 8UB, UK
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19
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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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20
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Diagnosis and Management of Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia in Patients with Liver and Bowel Disorders. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10030423. [PMID: 33499290 PMCID: PMC7865399 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10030423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2020] [Revised: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Anemia is a common feature of liver and bowel diseases. Although the main causes of anemia in these conditions are represented by gastrointestinal bleeding and iron deficiency, autoimmune hemolytic anemia should be considered in the differential diagnosis. Due to the epidemiological association, autoimmune hemolytic anemia should particularly be suspected in patients affected by inflammatory and autoimmune diseases, such as autoimmune or acute viral hepatitis, primary biliary cholangitis, and inflammatory bowel disease. In the presence of biochemical indices of hemolysis, the direct antiglobulin test can detect the presence of warm or cold reacting antibodies, allowing for a prompt treatment. Drug-induced, immune-mediated hemolytic anemia should be ruled out. On the other hand, the choice of treatment should consider possible adverse events related to the underlying conditions. Given the adverse impact of anemia on clinical outcomes, maintaining a high clinical suspicion to reach a prompt diagnosis is the key to establishing an adequate treatment.
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21
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Wang Y, Toh X, Ong J, Teo XH, Bay P, Fernandez CJ, Huangfu T. Serological prevalence and molecular characterization of hepatitis E virus in imported pigs in Singapore (2000-2019). Transbound Emerg Dis 2021; 69:286-296. [PMID: 33406320 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.13977] [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: 09/26/2020] [Revised: 12/28/2020] [Accepted: 01/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis E is a significant liver disease caused by infection with hepatitis E virus (HEV). The risk factors for hepatitis E in developed countries include blood transfusion and ingestion of undercooked meat or meat products derived from HEV-infected animals. Since 2000, there has been increased human hepatitis E incidence reported in Singapore. Although the causes of this increase have not been established, several studies have linked zoonotic HEV infections in humans to pork consumption. It is therefore important to closely monitor the presence of HEV in food sources for the prevalence and virulence. In this study, we demonstrated the presence of HEV in pigs imported into Singapore for consumption through serological and molecular investigation of live pig and post-slaughter samples collected between 2000 and 2019. Among imported pigs, anti-HEV antibody prevalence remained at a level around 35% until 2017, with a statistically significant increase in 2018. HEV RNA was detected in 8.40% (34/405) of the faecal samples, indicative of an active infection in the pigs. HEV RNA was also detected in 6.67% (4/60) of liver samples obtained post-slaughter. We also report the development of an RT-PCR-based next-generation sequencing (NGS) method that enabled full sequencing of the HEV genome in HEV RNA-positive samples in a relatively short span of time. Phylogenetic analysis identified the HEV in one of the imported pigs (HEV-S28) as genotype 3a, which clustered together with the human HEV strains previously identified in Singapore. We found that the HEV-S28 strain exhibited amino acid substitutions that are associated with reduced HEV replication efficiency. The increase in anti-HEV seroprevalence in the pig population from 2018 is worth further exploration. We will continue to monitor the prevalent HEV strains and assess the genetic diversity of HEV in the imported pigs to confirm the potential association with human infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifan Wang
- Center for Animal & Veterinary Sciences, Professional and Scientific Services, Animal and Veterinary Service, National Parks Board (NParks), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Xinyu Toh
- Center for Animal & Veterinary Sciences, Professional and Scientific Services, Animal and Veterinary Service, National Parks Board (NParks), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jasmine Ong
- Center for Animal & Veterinary Sciences, Professional and Scientific Services, Animal and Veterinary Service, National Parks Board (NParks), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Xuan Hui Teo
- Center for Animal & Veterinary Sciences, Professional and Scientific Services, Animal and Veterinary Service, National Parks Board (NParks), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Patrick Bay
- Singapore Food Agency (SFA), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Charlene Judith Fernandez
- Center for Animal & Veterinary Sciences, Professional and Scientific Services, Animal and Veterinary Service, National Parks Board (NParks), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Taoqi Huangfu
- Center for Animal & Veterinary Sciences, Professional and Scientific Services, Animal and Veterinary Service, National Parks Board (NParks), Singapore, Singapore
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22
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Di Cola G, Fantilli AC, Pisano MB, Ré VE. Foodborne transmission of hepatitis A and hepatitis E viruses: A literature review. Int J Food Microbiol 2021; 338:108986. [PMID: 33257099 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijfoodmicro.2020.108986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Revised: 11/04/2020] [Accepted: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Foodborne viruses have been recognized as a growing concern to the food industry and a serious public health problem. Hepatitis A virus (HAV) is responsible for the majority of viral outbreaks of food origin worldwide, while hepatitis E virus (HEV) has also been gaining prominence as a foodborne viral agent in the last years, due to its zoonotic transmission through the consumption of uncooked or undercooked infected meat or derivatives. However, there is a lack of scientific reports that gather all the updated information about HAV and HEV as foodborne viruses. A search of all scientific articles about HAV and HEV in food until March 2020 was carried out, using the keywords "HAV", "HEV", "foodborne", "outbreak" and "detection in food". Foodborne outbreaks due to HAV have been reported since 1956, mainly in the USA, and in Europe in recent years, where the number of outbreaks has been increasing throughout time, and nowadays it has become the continent with the highest foodborne HAV outbreak report. Investigation and detection of HAV in food is more recent, and the first detections were performed in the 1990s decade, most of them carried out on seafood, first, and frozen food, later. On the other hand, HEV has been mainly looked for and detected in food derived from reservoir animals, such as meat, sausages and pate of pigs and wild boars. For this virus, only isolated cases and small outbreaks of foodborne transmission have been recorded, most of them in industrialized countries, due to HEV genotype 3 or 4. Virus detection in food matrices requires special processing of the food matrix, followed by RNA detection by molecular techniques. For HAV, a real-time PCR has been agreed as the standard method for virus detection in food; in the case of HEV, a consensus assay for its detection in food has not been reached yet. Our investigation shows that there is still little data about HAV and HEV prevalence and frequency of contamination in food, prevalent viral strains, and sources of contamination, mainly in developing countries, where there is no research and legislation in this regard. Studies on these issues are needed to get a better understanding of foodborne viruses, their maintenance and their potential to cause diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guadalupe Di Cola
- Instituto de Virología "Dr. J. M. Vanella", Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Enfermera Gordillo Gomez s/n, CP: 5016 Córdoba, Argentina; Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Argentina.
| | - Anabella C Fantilli
- Instituto de Virología "Dr. J. M. Vanella", Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Enfermera Gordillo Gomez s/n, CP: 5016 Córdoba, Argentina; Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Argentina
| | - María Belén Pisano
- Instituto de Virología "Dr. J. M. Vanella", Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Enfermera Gordillo Gomez s/n, CP: 5016 Córdoba, Argentina; Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Argentina
| | - Viviana E Ré
- Instituto de Virología "Dr. J. M. Vanella", Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Enfermera Gordillo Gomez s/n, CP: 5016 Córdoba, Argentina; Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Argentina
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23
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Battistini R, Listorti V, Squadrone S, Pederiva S, Abete MC, Mua R, Ciccotelli V, Suffredini E, Maurella C, Baioni E, Orlandi M, Ercolini C, Serracca L. Occurrence and persistence of enteric viruses, arsenic and biotoxins in Pacific oysters farmed in an Italian production site. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2021; 162:111843. [PMID: 33223135 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2020.111843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Revised: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 11/11/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The presence of Norovirus (NoV) and Hepatitis E virus (HEV) in non-depurated and depurated oysters raised in the north-west Italian coast was investigated by quantitative real-time RT-PCR. Total and inorganic arsenic (As) and the presence of marine biotoxins (DSP, ASP, PSP) by LC-MS were also investigated. NoV was detected through all the sampling period in non depurated and depurated oysters with highest levels during wintertime (>104 genome copies per gram, gc/g) and minimum values in summer below the LOQ (<130/140 gc/g). HEV has never been found as well as biotoxins. Total As concentration was found in oysters in the range 0.45-3.0 mg/kg, while inorganic As was found in all samples in concentrations below the LOQ (<0.020 mg/kg). The study highlights how the 24 h depuration process didn't reduce significantly NoV levels and therefore the high concentration of NoV in oysters could represent a risk for consumers especially during winter and spring months.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Battistini
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d'Aosta, Turin, Italy.
| | - Valeria Listorti
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d'Aosta, Turin, Italy
| | - Stefania Squadrone
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d'Aosta, Turin, Italy
| | - Sabina Pederiva
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d'Aosta, Turin, Italy
| | - Maria Cesarina Abete
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d'Aosta, Turin, Italy
| | - Roberto Mua
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d'Aosta, Turin, Italy
| | - Valentina Ciccotelli
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d'Aosta, Turin, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Suffredini
- Department of Food Safety, Nutrition and Veterinary Public Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Cristiana Maurella
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d'Aosta, Turin, Italy
| | - Elisa Baioni
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d'Aosta, Turin, Italy
| | - Mino Orlandi
- Liguria Local Health Unit-ASL 5, Complex Unit of Hygiene of Foods and Animal Origin, La Spezia, Italy
| | - Carlo Ercolini
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d'Aosta, Turin, Italy
| | - Laura Serracca
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d'Aosta, Turin, Italy
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Sato N, Watanabe S, Miura K, Morimoto N, Takaoka Y, Nomoto H, Isoda N, Nagashima S, Takahashi M, Okamoto H, Yamamoto H. Clinical and virologic features of hepatitis E virus infection at a university hospital in Japan between 2000 and 2019. J Med Virol 2020; 92:3572-3583. [PMID: 32609895 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.26248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2020] [Accepted: 06/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The clinical and virologic features of hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection seem to vary among regions even in developed countries. However, we have little information on the diversity of HEV infection. Here, we investigated the characteristics of 26 patients in our hospital located in Tochigi prefecture, 90 km north of Tokyo, between 2000 and 2019. The reported number of patients with acute hepatitis E is increasing in Japan because measurement of IgA-class anti-HEV antibody was commercially available from 2011. In contrast, the numbers at our hospital were 1.5/y and 1.0/y in 2000 to 2011 and 2012 to 2019, respectively. This is attributed to the fact that we have been investigating HEV as a cause of unknown hepatitis before 2011. Among isolated HEV subgenotypes, including 3a, 3b, 4b, 4c, and 4d, all three patients with subgenotype 4c infection presented acute liver failure. Four HEV strains shared more than or equal to 99% identity within the 412-nucleotide partial sequence, in which the time and place of HEV infection varied, except for one intrafamilial infection. In addition, some strains were similar to HEV strains isolated far from Tochigi prefecture. In conclusion, the number of patients with acute hepatitis E was not increasing at Jichi Medical University Hospital and some strains were found to circulate in Japan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naoto Sato
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Jichi Medical University School of Medicine, Shimotsuke, Japan
| | - Shunji Watanabe
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Jichi Medical University School of Medicine, Shimotsuke, Japan
| | - Kouichi Miura
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Jichi Medical University School of Medicine, Shimotsuke, Japan
| | - Naoki Morimoto
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Jichi Medical University School of Medicine, Shimotsuke, Japan
| | - Yoshinari Takaoka
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Jichi Medical University School of Medicine, Shimotsuke, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Nomoto
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Jichi Medical University School of Medicine, Shimotsuke, Japan
| | - Norio Isoda
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Jichi Medical University School of Medicine, Shimotsuke, Japan
| | - Shigeo Nagashima
- Division of Virology, Department of Infection and Immunity, Jichi Medical University School of Medicine, Shimotsuke, Japan
| | - Masaharu Takahashi
- Division of Virology, Department of Infection and Immunity, Jichi Medical University School of Medicine, Shimotsuke, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Okamoto
- Division of Virology, Department of Infection and Immunity, Jichi Medical University School of Medicine, Shimotsuke, Japan
| | - Hironori Yamamoto
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Jichi Medical University School of Medicine, Shimotsuke, Japan
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Abstract
At present, humanity is confronting with a novel life-threatening challenge from the COVID-19 pandemic infectious disease caused by the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. To date, the various transmission modes of SARS-CoV-2 have not been completely determined. Food products might be carriers for SARS-CoV-2. The COVID-19 pandemic not only can spread through the respiratory tract like SARS and MERS but also the presence of the SARS-CoV-2 RNA in feces of several patients, shows the possibility of their fecal-oral route spread. Besides, people with gastric problems, including gastric intestinal metaplasia and atrophic gastritis, may be susceptible to this kind of COVID-19 infection. Accordingly, food may act as a potential vehicle of SARS-CoV-2 due to whether carry-through or carry-over contaminations. Considering carry-over, SARS-CoV-2 spread from personnel to food products or food surfaces is feasible. Beyond that, some shreds of evidence showed that pigs and rabbits can be infected by SARS-CoV-2. Thus, viral transmission through meat products may be conceivable, indicating carry-through contamination. As the spread rate of SARS-CoV-2 is high and its stability in different environments, especially food processing surfaces, is also remarkable, it may enter foods in whether industrialized processing or the traditional one. Therefore, established precautious acts is suggested to be applied in food processing units. The present review elucidates the risk of various staple food products, including meat and meat products, dairy products, bread, fruits, vegetables, and ready-to-eat foods as potential carriers for transmission of SARS-CoV-2.
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Phylogenetic analysis and epidemiological history of Hepatitis E virus 3f and 3c in swine and wild boar, Italy. Heliyon 2020; 6:e05110. [PMID: 33088938 PMCID: PMC7567929 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2020.e05110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2020] [Revised: 05/11/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Hepatitis E virus (HEV) genotype 3 has a worldwide distribution. The food-borne transmission of HEV associated with the consumption of products derived from domestic pig, wild boar has been reported in various countries. In this study the genetic diversity, evolutionary rates of HEV 3f, 3c among swine and wild boar in Italy were estimated. Methods Sampling was performed on a wild boar population living in an area located in Abruzzo region. The HEV RNA amplification was performed by real-time RT-PCR. Nested RT-PCR and sequencing of the ORF2 region were carried out by the Super Script III First-Strand Synthesis System. Sequencing of purified PCR products was carried out by the Genome Lab Dye Terminator Cycle Sequencing (DTCS) Quick Start Kit. The maximum likelihood trees were generated by using Phyml. The mean evolutionary rates and the dated trees were co-estimated by BEAST. Results The phylogenetic analysis showed that the HEV ORF2 isolates from Abruzzo region belonged to 3f subtype. The prevalent subtypes in Italy were those belonging to 3f and 3c. The estimated mean values of the HEV ORF2 capsid gene evolutionary rates were 1.915 × 10−2 substitutions/site/year (95% HPD: 1.64 × 10−3 – 3.97 × 10−2) and 2.81 × 10−2 substitutions/site/year (1.83 × 10−2 - 3.8 × 10−2) for 3f and 3c subtype datasets, respectively. The HEV 3f dated back to 1985 (1960–2000), whereas the 3c subtype entered in Italy during the year 2006 (2005–2006). The majority of the HEV 3f sequences collected from swine didn't appear intermixed, except in two cases. The HEV 3c population circulating in Italy remained segregated without significant transfer to swine. Conclusion Our study provide insight into the evolution, circulation of HEV 3f and 3c in Italy. Continued genomic surveillance of HEV in animal reservoir, as well as improving sanitary control measures are required.
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Locally acquired hepatitis E virus in Marche Italy: Clinical/laboratory features and outcome. Dig Liver Dis 2020; 52:434-439. [PMID: 31874836 DOI: 10.1016/j.dld.2019.11.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2019] [Revised: 10/23/2019] [Accepted: 11/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Hepatitis E Virus is endemic in Europe with increasing numbers of cases in recent years, also in Italy where this phenomenon has hitherto been modest. The aim of this study was to document the clinical features/natural history of locally acquired hepatitis E in our territory and explore factors which determine adverse outcome. METHODS Retrospective study of patients with locally-acquired HEV (hepatitis E virus) in Marche, Italy (2011-2019). RESULTS 1189 patients were tested for HEV with 89 confirmed cases. 81 (6.8%) had locally acquired infection; 54 (66%) were male (mean age 55.5 years) and 32 (39.5%) had active co-morbidities. 41 cases were viraemic (all HEV-3 (HEV genotype 1,2,3,4)); acute infection was found in 79 and chronic infection in 2. Forty-five cases (55%) required admission to hospital, for a total of 785 days. 4 patients developed acute on-chronic liver failure, 6 developed acute kidney injury and 8 died: all had active comorbidities. Univariate analysis showed that bilirubin, INR, immunosuppression, cirrhosis and diabetes were associated with death. On multivariant analysis the only predictor of death was the presence of diabetes (p = 0.04). CONCLUSIONS Hepatitis E in Marche Italy is mostly locally acquired and caused by HEV-3 that impacts on the morbidity and mortality particularly for fragile patients.
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Environmental and Adaptive Changes Necessitate a Paradigm Shift for Indicators of Fecal Contamination. Microbiol Spectr 2020. [DOI: 10.1128/microbiolspec.erv-0001-2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT
Changes in the occurrence, distribution, and seasonal variation of waterborne pathogens due to global climate change may increase the risk of human exposure to these microorganisms, thus heightening the need for more reliable surveillance systems. Routine monitoring of drinking water supplies and recreational waters is performed using fecal indicator microorganisms, such as
Escherichia coli
,
Enterococcus
spp., and coliphages. However, the presence and numbers of these indicators, especially
E. coli
and
Enterococcus
spp., do not correlate well with those of other pathogens, especially enteric viruses, which are a major cause of waterborne outbreaks associated with contaminated water and food, and recreational use of lakes, ponds, rivers, and estuarine waters. For that reason, there is a growing need for a surveillance system that can detect and quantify viral pathogens directly in water sources to reduce transmission of pathogens associated with fecal transmission. In this review, we present an updated overview of relevant waterborne enteric viruses that we believe should be more commonly screened to better evaluate water quality and to determine the safety of water use and reuse and of epidemiological data on viral outbreaks. We also discuss current methodologies that are available to detect and quantify these viruses in water resources. Finally, we highlight challenges associated with virus monitoring. The information presented in this review is intended to aid in the assessment of human health risks due to contact with water sources, especially since current environmental and adaptive changes may be creating the need for a paradigm shift for indicators of fecal contamination.
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Iaconelli M, Bonanno Ferraro G, Mancini P, Suffredini E, Veneri C, Ciccaglione AR, Bruni R, Della Libera S, Bignami F, Brambilla M, De Medici D, Brandtner D, Schembri P, D’Amato S, La Rosa G. Nine-Year Nationwide Environmental Surveillance of Hepatitis E Virus in Urban Wastewaters in Italy (2011-2019). INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E2059. [PMID: 32244915 PMCID: PMC7143501 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17062059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Revised: 03/18/2020] [Accepted: 03/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is an emerging causative agent of acute hepatitis worldwide. To provide insights into the epidemiology of HEV in Italy, a large-scale investigation was conducted into urban sewage over nine years (2011-2019), collecting 1374 sewage samples from 48 wastewater treatment plants located in all the 20 regions of Italy. Broadly reactive primers targeting the ORF1 and ORF2 regions were used for the detection and typing of HEV, followed by Sanger and next generation sequencing (NGS). Real-time RT-qPCR was also used to attempt quantification of positive samples. HEV RNA detection occurred in 74 urban sewage samples (5.4%), with a statistically significant higher frequency (7.1%) in central Italy. Fifty-six samples were characterized as G3 strains and 18 as G1. While the detection of G3 strains occurred in all the surveillance period, G1 strains were mainly detected in 2011-2012, and never in 2017-2019. Typing was achieved in 2 samples (3f subtype). Viral concentrations in quantifiable samples ranged from 1.2 × 103 g.c./L to 2.8 × 104 g.c./L. Our results suggest the considerable circulation of the virus in the Italian population, despite a relatively small number of notified cases, a higher occurrence in central Italy, and a noteworthy predominance of G3 strains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcello Iaconelli
- Department of Environment and Health - Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy; (M.I.); (G.B.F.); (P.M.); (C.V.); (S.D.L.); (F.B.)
| | - Giusy Bonanno Ferraro
- Department of Environment and Health - Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy; (M.I.); (G.B.F.); (P.M.); (C.V.); (S.D.L.); (F.B.)
| | - Pamela Mancini
- Department of Environment and Health - Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy; (M.I.); (G.B.F.); (P.M.); (C.V.); (S.D.L.); (F.B.)
| | - Elisabetta Suffredini
- Department of Food Safety, Nutrition and Veterinary Public Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy; (E.S.); (D.D.M.)
| | - Carolina Veneri
- Department of Environment and Health - Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy; (M.I.); (G.B.F.); (P.M.); (C.V.); (S.D.L.); (F.B.)
| | - Anna Rita Ciccaglione
- Department Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy; (A.R.C.); (R.B.)
| | - Roberto Bruni
- Department Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy; (A.R.C.); (R.B.)
| | - Simonetta Della Libera
- Department of Environment and Health - Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy; (M.I.); (G.B.F.); (P.M.); (C.V.); (S.D.L.); (F.B.)
| | - Francesco Bignami
- Department of Environment and Health - Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy; (M.I.); (G.B.F.); (P.M.); (C.V.); (S.D.L.); (F.B.)
| | - Massimo Brambilla
- Consiglio per la ricerca in agricoltura e l’analisi dell’economia agraria (CREA), Research Centre for Engineering and Agri Food Processing, 24047 Treviglio, BG, Italy;
| | - Dario De Medici
- Department of Food Safety, Nutrition and Veterinary Public Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy; (E.S.); (D.D.M.)
| | | | - Pietro Schembri
- Regional Department for Health Activities and Epidemiological Observatory of the Sicilian Region, 90146 Palermo, Italy;
| | - Stefania D’Amato
- Ministry of Health, Directorate-General for Prevention, 00144 Rome, Italy;
| | - Giuseppina La Rosa
- Department of Environment and Health - Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy; (M.I.); (G.B.F.); (P.M.); (C.V.); (S.D.L.); (F.B.)
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Suffredini E, Le Q, Di Pasquale S, Pham T, Vicenza T, Losardo M, To K, De Medici D. Occurrence and molecular characterization of enteric viruses in bivalve shellfish marketed in Vietnam. Food Control 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodcont.2019.106828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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31
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Santos-Ferreira N, Mesquita JR, Rivadulla E, Inácio ÂS, Martins da Costa P, Romalde JL, Nascimento MSJ. Hepatitis E virus genotype 3 in echinoderms: First report of sea urchin (Paracentrotus lividus) contamination. Food Microbiol 2020; 89:103415. [PMID: 32138985 DOI: 10.1016/j.fm.2020.103415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2019] [Revised: 01/07/2020] [Accepted: 01/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) deriving from manure application runoffs and faecal waste spill over of swine and human origin bypass wastewater treatment plants and contaminate coastal waters. Shellfish bioaccumulate enteric viruses such as HEV from fecally contaminated coastal waters and under current European Regulations, shellfish sanitary status surveillance is mandatory but only by means of bacterial faecal indicators. The sea urchins are under the same regulations and their vulnerability to fecal contamination has been pointed out. Since they are consumed raw and with no steps to control/reduce hazards, sea urchin contamination with enteric viruses can represent a food safety risk. Hence, the aim of the present study was to screen sea urchin gonads destined for human consumption for the presence of HEV. HEV was detected and quantified in gonads of sea urchins collected in north Portugal by a reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) assay targeting the ORF3 region, followed by genotyping by a nested RT-PCR targeting the ORF2 region. Sequencing and phylogenetic analysis clustered the HEV sequence within genotype 3, subgenotype e. This the first study reporting HEV contamination of sea urchins. We hypothesize that like shellfish, sea urchins can also be a food vehicle for HEV transmission to humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nânci Santos-Ferreira
- Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research, University of Porto (CIIMAR/CIMAR), Matosinhos, Portugal.
| | - João Rodrigo Mesquita
- Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar (ICBAS), Universidade Do Porto, Porto, Portugal; Epidemiology Research Unit (EPIUnit), Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade Do Porto, Portugal.
| | - Enrique Rivadulla
- Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, CIBUS-Facultad de Biología, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15782, Santiago de Compostela, Spain.
| | - Ângela S Inácio
- Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research, University of Porto (CIIMAR/CIMAR), Matosinhos, Portugal.
| | - Paulo Martins da Costa
- Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research, University of Porto (CIIMAR/CIMAR), Matosinhos, Portugal; Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar (ICBAS), Universidade Do Porto, Porto, Portugal.
| | - Jesus L Romalde
- Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, CIBUS-Facultad de Biología, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15782, Santiago de Compostela, Spain.
| | - Maria São José Nascimento
- Epidemiology Research Unit (EPIUnit), Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade Do Porto, Portugal; Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Do Porto (FFUP), Porto, Portugal.
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Detection of hepatitis E virus (rabbit genotype) in farmed rabbits entering the food chain. Int J Food Microbiol 2020; 319:108507. [PMID: 31981930 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijfoodmicro.2020.108507] [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] [Received: 08/22/2019] [Revised: 12/09/2019] [Accepted: 01/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infects humans and many animal species. The rabbit HEV has been found in farmed, wild and pet rabbits as well as in human patients suggesting zoonotic transmission. Although the routes of human infection with rabbit strains are unclear a foodborne transmission is suggested especially when asymptomatically infected animals could enter the food chain. The aims of the study were an evaluation of the prevalence of HEV infections in slaughtered rabbits, identification of the virus genotype(s) and assessment of their genetic relatedness to other zoonotic HEV strains. A pair of blood and liver samples (n = 482) were collected from meat rabbits of different breeds slaughtered at the age of 2.8 to 6 months. The animals originated from 20 small-scale and 4 large-scale commercial farms operating in Poland. The presence of anti-HEV antibodies in animals was detected by the use of a recomWell HEV IgG (human) ELISA kit (Mikrogen Diagnostik) adapted to rabbit sera. The isolation of HEV and sample process control virus (feline calicivirus) RNA from homogenates of liver destined for food and virus-positive sera was performed using a QIAamp® Viral RNA Mini Kit (Qiagen). A one-step real-time reverse transcription PCR method containing a target-specific internal amplification control was used for detection of HEV. The (sub)genotype of detected rabbit HEV strains was identified based on sequence analysis of the ORF2 and ORF2/3 virus genome fragments. Anti-HEV antibodies were detected in 29 (6%) out of 482 rabbit sera samples collected from animals raised only on the small-scale rabbit farms. Four sera were also positive for HEV RNA. Viral RNA was detected in 72 (14.9%) animal livers. Analysing ELISA and PCR results using Student's t-test, there were significant differences observed in the frequency of HEV infections between rabbits from small-scale and commercial farms (t = 2.675, p = 0.015 < 0.05 for ELISA and t = 2.705, p = 0.014 < 0.05 for PCR). All detected virus strains were identified as HEV gt3 ra subtype. The results of this study provide data on the occurrence of HEV infections in rabbits entering the food chain, suggesting that a risk of foodborne HEV infection due to consumption of contaminated meat and liver exists. In this light, the presence of rabbit HEV in food animals is pertinent as an issue of food safety and the surveillance of these animals for emerging or re-emerging viruses.
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Fousekis FS, Mitselos IV, Christodoulou DK. Extrahepatic manifestations of hepatitis E virus: An overview. Clin Mol Hepatol 2019; 26:16-23. [PMID: 31601068 PMCID: PMC6940480 DOI: 10.3350/cmh.2019.0082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2019] [Accepted: 09/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a significant health problem with approximately 20 million individuals infected annually. HEV infection has been associated with a wide spectrum of extrahepatic manifestations, including neurological, hematological and renal disorders. Guillain-Barré syndrome and neuralgic amyotrophy are the most frequent neurological manifestations. In addition, HEV infection has been observed with other neurological diseases, such as encephalitis, myelitis and Bell’s palsy. Hematologic manifestations include anemia due to glucose-6-phospate dehydrogonase deficiency, autoimmune hemolytic anemia and severe thrombocytopenia. Membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis and relapse IgA nephropathy with or without coexisting cryoglobulinemia appear to be the most common renal injuries related with HEV infection. Also, HEV infection has been associated with acute pancreatitis and other immune-mediated manifestations, such as arthritis and myocarditis. However, the pathophysiologic mechanisms of HEV-related extrahepatic manifestations are still largely unclear.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fotios S Fousekis
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital of Ioannina, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Ioannis V Mitselos
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital of Ioannina, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Dimitrios K Christodoulou
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital of Ioannina, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
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34
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Alfonsi V, Romanò L, Ciccaglione AR, La Rosa G, Bruni R, Zanetti A, Della Libera S, Iaconelli M, Bagnarelli P, Capobianchi MR, Garbuglia AR, Riccardo F, Tosti ME. Hepatitis E in Italy: 5 years of national epidemiological, virological and environmental surveillance, 2012 to 2016. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 23. [PMID: 30326991 PMCID: PMC6194909 DOI: 10.2807/1560-7917.es.2018.23.41.1700517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Increasing numbers of hepatitis E cases are being reported in several European countries, including Italy, but the burden of hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection is largely unknown in the latter. To gain a better understanding of HEV epidemiology at national level in Italy, we piloted a strengthened and integrated human (epidemiological and virological) and environmental HEV surveillance system between 2012 and 2016. Over the 5-year period, 169 confirmed hepatitis E cases were identified, with a national annual incidence of 0.72 cases per 1,000,000. Of 65 HEV-RNA positive samples of sufficient quality for molecular analysis, 66% were genotype HEV3, 32% HEV1 and 1% HEV4. The most frequent risk factor reported by all HEV3 infected cases, was the consumption of undercooked pork and sausage. For the environmental surveillance, 679 urban sewage samples were collected from 53 wastewater treatment plants and HEV-RNA was detected in 38/679 of the samples. Among these, 25 (66%) were genotype HEV3 and the remaining were HEV1. We demonstrate that autochthonous transmission and environmental circulation of genotype HEV3 is adding to travel-related HEV transmission in Italy. We recommend the ‘One Health’ approach to integrated surveillance, and to include HEV-related messages within health information campaigns focussing on food security.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Alfonsi
- Department of Infectious Diseases - Istituto Superiore di Sanità (ISS), Rome, Italy
| | - Luisa Romanò
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health - Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Anna Rita Ciccaglione
- Viral Hepatitis Unit, Department of Infectious Diseases - Istituto Superiore di Sanità (ISS), Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppina La Rosa
- Department of Environment and Health - Istituto Superiore di Sanità (ISS), Rome, Italy
| | - Roberto Bruni
- Viral Hepatitis Unit, Department of Infectious Diseases - Istituto Superiore di Sanità (ISS), Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandro Zanetti
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health - Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Marcello Iaconelli
- Department of Environment and Health - Istituto Superiore di Sanità (ISS), Rome, Italy
| | - Patrizia Bagnarelli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Virology - Hospital of Ancona, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Italy
| | | | - Anna Rosa Garbuglia
- Laboratory of Virology - Istituto Nazionale per le Malattie Infettive "L. Spallanzani", Rome, Italy
| | - Flavia Riccardo
- Department of Infectious Diseases - Istituto Superiore di Sanità (ISS), Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Elena Tosti
- National Center for Global Health - Istituto Superiore di Sanità (ISS), Rome, Italy
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Quantification and genetic diversity of Hepatitis E virus in wild boar (Sus scrofa) hunted for domestic consumption in Central Italy. Food Microbiol 2019; 82:194-201. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fm.2019.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2018] [Revised: 02/07/2019] [Accepted: 02/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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Rivadulla E, Varela MF, Mesquita JR, Nascimento MSJ, Romalde JL. Detection of Hepatitis E Virus in Shellfish Harvesting Areas from Galicia (Northwestern Spain). Viruses 2019; 11:E618. [PMID: 31284466 PMCID: PMC6669863 DOI: 10.3390/v11070618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2019] [Revised: 07/01/2019] [Accepted: 07/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The hepatitis E virus (HEV) affects almost 20 million individuals annually, causing approximately 3.3 million acute liver injuries, 56,600 deaths, and huge healthcare-associated economic losses. Shellfish produced close to urban and livestock areas can bioaccumulate this virus and transmit it to the human population. The aim of this study was to evaluate the presence of HEV in molluscan shellfish, in order to deepen the knowledge about HEV prevalence in Galicia (northwestern Spain), and to investigate this as a possible route of HEV transmission to humans. A total of 168 shellfish samples was obtained from two different Galician rías (Ría de Ares-Betanzos and Ría de Vigo). The samples were analyzed by reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR). RT-nested PCR and sequencing were used for further genotyping and phylogenetic analysis of positive samples. HEV was detected in 41 (24.4%) samples, at quantification levels ranging from non-quantifiable (<102 copies of the RNA genome (RNAc)/g tissue) to 1.1 × 105 RNAc/g tissue. Phylogenetic analysis based on the open reading frame (ORF)2 region showed that all sequenced isolates belonged to genotype 3, and were closely related to strains of sub-genotype e, which is of swine origin. The obtained results demonstrate a significant prevalence of HEV in bivalve molluscs from Galician rías, reinforcing the hypothesis that shellfish may be a potential route for HEV transmission to humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrique Rivadulla
- Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, CIBUS-Facultad de Biología, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Miguel F Varela
- Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, CIBUS-Facultad de Biología, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - João R Mesquita
- Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar (ICBAS), Universidade do Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
- Epidemiology Research Unit (EPIUnit), Instituto de Saúde Pública da Universidade do Porto, 4050-600 Porto, Portugal
| | - Maria S J Nascimento
- Epidemiology Research Unit (EPIUnit), Instituto de Saúde Pública da Universidade do Porto, 4050-600 Porto, Portugal
- Laboratório de Microbiologia, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Jesús L Romalde
- Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, CIBUS-Facultad de Biología, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain.
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Fenaux H, Chassaing M, Berger S, Gantzer C, Bertrand I, Schvoerer E. Transmission of hepatitis E virus by water: An issue still pending in industrialized countries. WATER RESEARCH 2019; 151:144-157. [PMID: 30594083 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2018.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2018] [Revised: 12/05/2018] [Accepted: 12/07/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is an enteric virus divided into eight genotypes. Genotype 1 (G1) and G2 are specific to humans; G3, G4 and G7 are zoonotic genotypes infecting humans and animals. Transmission to humans through water has been demonstrated for G1 and G2, mainly in developing countries, but is only suspected for the zoonotic genotypes. Thus, the water-related HEV hazard may be due to human and animal faeces. The high HEV genetic variability allows considering the presence in wastewater of not only different genotypes, but also quasispecies adding even greater diversity. Moreover, recent studies have demonstrated that HEV particles may be either quasi-enveloped or non-enveloped, potentially implying differential viral behaviours in the environment. The presence of HEV has been demonstrated at the different stages of the water cycle all over the world, especially for HEV G3 in Europe and the USA. Concerning HEV survival in water, the virus does not have higher resistance to inactivating factors (heat, UV, chlorine, physical removal), compared to viral indicators (MS2 phage) or other highly resistant enteric viruses (Hepatitis A virus). But the studies did not take into account genetic (genogroups, quasispecies) or structural (quasi- or non-enveloped forms) HEV variability. Viral variability could indeed modify HEV persistence in water by influencing its interaction with the environment, its infectivity and its pathogenicity, and subsequently its transmission by water. The cell culture methods used to study HEV survival still have drawbacks (challenging virus cultivation, time consuming, lack of sensitivity). As explained in the present review, the issue of HEV transmission to humans through water is similar to that of other enteric viruses because of their similar or lower survival. HEV transmission to animals through water and how the virus variability affects its survival and transmission remain to be investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Fenaux
- Laboratoire de Virologie, CHRU de Nancy Brabois, F-54511 Vandoeuvre lès Nancy, France; Laboratoire de Chimie Physique et Microbiologie pour les Matériaux et l'Environnement, LCPME UMR 7564 CNRS-UL, F-54600 Villers lès Nancy, France
| | - M Chassaing
- Laboratoire de Chimie Physique et Microbiologie pour les Matériaux et l'Environnement, LCPME UMR 7564 CNRS-UL, F-54600 Villers lès Nancy, France
| | - S Berger
- Laboratoire de Virologie, CHRU de Nancy Brabois, F-54511 Vandoeuvre lès Nancy, France
| | - C Gantzer
- Laboratoire de Chimie Physique et Microbiologie pour les Matériaux et l'Environnement, LCPME UMR 7564 CNRS-UL, F-54600 Villers lès Nancy, France
| | - I Bertrand
- Laboratoire de Chimie Physique et Microbiologie pour les Matériaux et l'Environnement, LCPME UMR 7564 CNRS-UL, F-54600 Villers lès Nancy, France
| | - E Schvoerer
- Laboratoire de Virologie, CHRU de Nancy Brabois, F-54511 Vandoeuvre lès Nancy, France; Laboratoire de Chimie Physique et Microbiologie pour les Matériaux et l'Environnement, LCPME UMR 7564 CNRS-UL, F-54600 Villers lès Nancy, France.
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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: 3.3] [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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39
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Kantala T, Maunula L. Hepatitis E virus: zoonotic and foodborne transmission in developed countries. Future Virol 2018. [DOI: 10.2217/fvl-2018-0062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV), together with hepatitis A virus, transmits via the fecal–oral route. The number of domestic hepatitis E cases among Europeans has grown alarmingly during the past 5 years. Surveillance studies suggest that the number of foodborne HEV infections is increasing most rapidly. Zoonotic HEV genotype HEV-3 is prevalent among pigs and wild boars in Europe and many developed countries, whereas zoonotic genotype HEV-4 is more common in pigs in some Asian countries. This review presents the most recent data about possible foodborne transmission of HEV via pigs and other production animals and about the presence of HEV in high-risk foods, such as ready-to-eat meat products. Possible solutions about how to tackle this problem are discussed here.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuija Kantala
- Department of Food Hygiene & Environmental Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, P.O. Box 66, FI-00014, Helsinki, Finland
- Finnish Food Safety Authority Evira, Mustialankatu 3, FI-00790 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Leena Maunula
- Department of Food Hygiene & Environmental Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, P.O. Box 66, FI-00014, Helsinki, Finland
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40
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Khounvisith V, Tritz S, Khenkha L, Phoutana V, Keosengthong A, Pommasichan S, Nouanthong P, Hübschen JM, Snoeck CJ, Reinharz D, Muller CP, Black AP, Pauly M. High circulation of Hepatitis E virus in pigs and professionals exposed to pigs in Laos. Zoonoses Public Health 2018; 65:1020-1026. [DOI: 10.1111/zph.12520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2018] [Revised: 06/06/2018] [Accepted: 08/07/2018] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Vilaysone Khounvisith
- Lao-Lux-Laboratory; Institute Pasteur du Laos; Vientiane Lao People's Democratic Republic
- Institut de la Francophonie pour la Médecine Tropicale; Vientiane Lao People's Democratic Republic
| | - Silvia Tritz
- Lao-Lux-Laboratory; Institute Pasteur du Laos; Vientiane Lao People's Democratic Republic
- Department of Infection and Immunity; Luxembourg Institute of Health; Esch-sur-Alzette Luxembourg
| | - Latdavone Khenkha
- Lao-Lux-Laboratory; Institute Pasteur du Laos; Vientiane Lao People's Democratic Republic
| | - Vannaphone Phoutana
- The Faculty of Agriculture; National University of Laos; Xaythany, Vientiane People's Democratic Republic
| | - Amphone Keosengthong
- The Faculty of Agriculture; National University of Laos; Xaythany, Vientiane People's Democratic Republic
| | - Sisavath Pommasichan
- The Faculty of Agriculture; National University of Laos; Xaythany, Vientiane People's Democratic Republic
| | | | - Judith M. Hübschen
- Department of Infection and Immunity; Luxembourg Institute of Health; Esch-sur-Alzette Luxembourg
| | - Chantal J. Snoeck
- Department of Infection and Immunity; Luxembourg Institute of Health; Esch-sur-Alzette Luxembourg
| | - Daniel Reinharz
- Institut de la Francophonie pour la Médecine Tropicale; Vientiane Lao People's Democratic Republic
| | - Claude P. Muller
- Lao-Lux-Laboratory; Institute Pasteur du Laos; Vientiane Lao People's Democratic Republic
- Department of Infection and Immunity; Luxembourg Institute of Health; Esch-sur-Alzette Luxembourg
- Laboratoire National de Santé; Dudelange Luxembourg
| | - Antony P. Black
- Lao-Lux-Laboratory; Institute Pasteur du Laos; Vientiane Lao People's Democratic Republic
| | - Maude Pauly
- Lao-Lux-Laboratory; Institute Pasteur du Laos; Vientiane Lao People's Democratic Republic
- Department of Infection and Immunity; Luxembourg Institute of Health; Esch-sur-Alzette Luxembourg
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O'Hara Z, Crossan C, Craft J, Scobie L. First Report of the Presence of Hepatitis E Virus in Scottish-Harvested Shellfish Purchased at Retail Level. FOOD AND ENVIRONMENTAL VIROLOGY 2018; 10:217-221. [PMID: 29442296 PMCID: PMC5951870 DOI: 10.1007/s12560-018-9337-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2017] [Accepted: 01/19/2018] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Shellfish samples (n = 310) purchased from local supermarkets were analysed for the presence of hepatitis E virus (HEV) by nested RT-PCR and real-time qRT-PCR. Overall, 2.9% of samples tested positive for the presence of HEV. Phylogenetic analysis of HEV sequences revealed all as being genotype 3 HEV. This is the first report of the detection of HEV in commercially sold shellfish in Scotland. These findings may encourage further research that will help address the gaps in the knowledge in respect to foodborne transmission of HEV in Scotland and the rest of the United Kingdom.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoe O'Hara
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, Scotland, UK.
| | - Claire Crossan
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, Scotland, UK
| | - John Craft
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, Scotland, UK
| | - Linda Scobie
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, Scotland, UK
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