1
|
Turlewicz-Podbielska H, Augustyniak A, Wojciechowski J, Pomorska-Mól M. Hepatitis E Virus in Livestock-Update on Its Epidemiology and Risk of Infection to Humans. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:3239. [PMID: 37893962 PMCID: PMC10603682 DOI: 10.3390/ani13203239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a public health problem worldwide and an important food pathogen known for its zoonotic potential. Increasing numbers of infection cases with human HEV are caused by the zoonotic transmission of genotypes 3 and 4, mainly by consuming contaminated, undercooked or raw porcine meat. Pigs are the main reservoir of HEV. However, it should be noted that other animal species, such as cattle, sheep, goats, and rabbits, may also be a source of infection for humans. Due to the detection of HEV RNA in the milk and tissues of cattle, the consumption of infected uncooked milk and meat or offal from these species also poses a potential risk of zoonotic HEV infections. Poultry infected by avian HEV may also develop symptomatic disease, although avian HEV is not considered a zoonotic pathogen. HEV infection has a worldwide distribution with different prevalence rates depending on the affected animal species, sampling region, or breeding system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hanna Turlewicz-Podbielska
- Department of Preclinical Sciences and Infectious Diseases, Poznan University of Life Sciences, Wolynska 35, 60-637 Poznan, Poland; (H.T.-P.); (A.A.)
| | - Agata Augustyniak
- Department of Preclinical Sciences and Infectious Diseases, Poznan University of Life Sciences, Wolynska 35, 60-637 Poznan, Poland; (H.T.-P.); (A.A.)
| | | | - Małgorzata Pomorska-Mól
- Department of Preclinical Sciences and Infectious Diseases, Poznan University of Life Sciences, Wolynska 35, 60-637 Poznan, Poland; (H.T.-P.); (A.A.)
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Animal reservoirs for hepatitis E virus within the Paslahepevirus genus. Vet Microbiol 2023; 278:109618. [PMID: 36640568 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetmic.2022.109618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Revised: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is responsible for acute hepatitis in humans. It is a single-stranded, positive-sense RNA virus that belongs to the Hepeviridae family. The majority of concerning HEV genotypes belong to the Paslahepevirus genus and are subsequently divided into eight genotypes. HEV genotypes 1 and 2 exclusively infect humans and primates while genotypes 3 and 4 infect both humans and other mammals. Whereas HEV genotypes 5 and 6 are isolated from wild boars and genotypes 7 and 8 were identified from camels in the United Arab Emirates and China, respectively. HEV mainly spreads from humans to humans via the fecal-oral route. However, some genotypes with the capability of zoonotic transmissions, such as 3 and 4 transmit from animals to humans through feces, direct contact, and ingestion of contaminated meat products. As we further continue to uncover novel HEV strains in various animal species, it is becoming clear that HEV has a broad host range. Therefore, understanding the potential animal reservoirs for this virus will allow for better risk management and risk mitigation of infection with HEV. In this review, we mainly focused on animal reservoirs for the members of the species Paslahepevirus balayani and provided a comprehensive list of the host animals identified to date.
Collapse
|
3
|
Phylodynamic Analysis Suggests That Deer Species May Be a True Reservoir for Hepatitis E Virus Genotypes 3 and 4. Microorganisms 2023; 11:microorganisms11020375. [PMID: 36838340 PMCID: PMC9967072 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11020375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) genotypes 3 and 4 (HEV-3 and HEV-4) cause zoonotic infection in humans, with domestic pigs and wild boars being the main reservoirs of infection. Other than suids, HEV-3 and HEV-4 are found in ruminants, most frequently in deer species. However, it is still debatable, whether HEV infection in deer is a spillover, or indicates a stable virus circulation in these host species. To explore the patterns of HEV-3 and HEV-4 transmission in deer and other host species, we performed a Bayesian analysis of HEV sequences available in GenBank. A total of 27 HEV sequences from different deer species were found in GenBank. Sequences from wild boars collected in the same territories, as well as sequences from all mammals that were most similar to sequences from deer in blast search, were added to the dataset, comprising 617 in total sequences. Due to the presence of partial genomic sequences, they were divided into four subsets (two ORF1 fragments and two ORF2 fragments) and analyzed separately. European HEV-3 sequences and Asian HEV-4 sequences collected from deer species demonstrated two transmission patterns. The first pattern was spillover infection, and the second pattern was deer-to-deer transmission, indicating stable HEV circulation in these species. However, all geographic HEV clusters that contained both deer and swine sequences originated from ancestral swine strains. HEV-3 and HEV-4 transmission patterns in ungulates reconstructed by means of Bayesian analysis indicate that deer species are a true host for HEV. However, wild and domestic swine are often the primary source of infection for ruminants living in the same areas. Complete HEV genomic sequences from different parts of the world are crucial for further understanding the HEV-3 and HEV-4 circulation patterns in wildlife.
Collapse
|
4
|
Yu L, Zhang Y, Qi X, Bai K, Zhang Z, Bu H. Next-generation sequencing for the diagnosis of Listeria monocytogenes meningoencephalitis: a case series of five consecutive patients. J Med Microbiol 2023; 72. [PMID: 36748504 DOI: 10.1099/jmm.0.001641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction. The prompt and specific diagnosis of Listeria monocytogenes meningoencephalitis (LMM) is challenging. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is an emerging technique for diagnosing infrequent causative pathogens.Hypothesis/Gap statement. We hypothesized that NGS of CSF is an effective approach for diagnosing LMM.Aim. To evaluate the effectiveness of NGS, we present five cases of LMM diagnosed using NGS of the CSF.Methodology. Between August 2017 and 30 September 2020, we used NGS of the CSF to detect pathogens in patients with clinically suspected central nervous system infections. The clinical characteristics, laboratory tests, imaging findings and NGS results are reviewed.Results. Five patients were diagnosed with LMM using NGS of the CSF within 2 to 4 days, although the clinical manifestations, medical history and imaging findings varied strikingly. NGS of CSF showed sequence reads corresponding to L. monocytogenes species ranging from 118 to 1997 bp, genomic coverage of 0.29-5.96 %, relative abundance of 14.83-32.16 % and sequencing depth of 1.12 to 1.35. The prompt diagnosis resulted in targeted and effective treatment with the appropriate antibiotics, although two patients with the most severe cerebral parenchymal lesions showed little improvement.Conclusion. Our results demonstrate the power of NGS of CSF for the prompt diagnosis of LMM. NGS of CSF is an important complementary tool for identifying L. monocytogenes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lili Yu
- Department of Neurology, the Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050000, Hebei, PR China.,Key Laboratory of Neurology of Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang 050000, Hebei, PR China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Department of Neurology, the Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050000, Hebei, PR China.,Key Laboratory of Neurology of Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang 050000, Hebei, PR China
| | - Xuejiao Qi
- Department of Neurology, the Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050000, Hebei, PR China.,Key Laboratory of Neurology of Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang 050000, Hebei, PR China
| | - Kaixuan Bai
- Department of Neurology, the Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050000, Hebei, PR China.,Key Laboratory of Neurology of Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang 050000, Hebei, PR China
| | - Zhenyuan Zhang
- Department of Neurology, the Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050000, Hebei, PR China.,Key Laboratory of Neurology of Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang 050000, Hebei, PR China
| | - Hui Bu
- Department of Neurology, the Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050000, Hebei, PR China.,Key Laboratory of Neurology of Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang 050000, Hebei, PR China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Battistini R, Serracca L, Razzuoli E, Listorti V, Guardone L, Dellepiane M, Pussini N, Brunelli F, Peletto S, Beltramo C, Ercolini C, Masotti C. Hepatitis E Virus (HEV): Identification of Subtypes 3b and 3m in Wild Boar Population in Liguria Region, Italy. Pathogens 2022; 11:1236. [PMID: 36364986 PMCID: PMC9694157 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11111236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Revised: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/22/2022] [Indexed: 10/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The wild boar is an important natural reservoir for the zoonotic transmission of the hepatitis E virus (HEV) around the world. In particular, HEV genotypes 3 and 4 are an emerging problem in industrialized countries, as the number of wild boars has increased, and their territory is ever closer to farms and populated areas. This study describes the HEV prevalence and geographic circulation among wild boar populations in the Ligurian region (Italy) during the period 2019-2022. Liver samples from 849 wild boars were analyzed for HEV RNA using real-time RT-PCR; positive samples were then subjected to sequencing and phylogenetic analysis. Overall, 6.7% of the wild boars were positive for HEV RNA; however, in the last two years, the percentage of positive animals almost doubled. Phylogenetic analysis showed that wild boar HEV sequences belonged to genotype 3 and clustered within subtypes 3a and 3c, and, for the first time in Italy, subtypes 3b and 3m were identified. Interestingly, 13 sequences could not be assigned to a recognized subtype. Furthermore, the results showed different circulations of identified subtypes across the territory. These findings increase the knowledge of HEV-3 heterogeneity in Italy and describe the role of wild boars in maintaining an active viral circulation in the environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Battistini
- Department of La Spezia, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d’Aosta, Via degli Stagnoni 96, 19100 La Spezia, Italy
| | - Laura Serracca
- Department of La Spezia, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d’Aosta, Via degli Stagnoni 96, 19100 La Spezia, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Razzuoli
- Department of Genoa, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d’Aosta, Piazza Borgo Pila 39/24, 16129 Genoa, Italy
| | - Valeria Listorti
- Department of Genoa, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d’Aosta, Piazza Borgo Pila 39/24, 16129 Genoa, Italy
| | - Lisa Guardone
- Department of Genoa, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d’Aosta, Piazza Borgo Pila 39/24, 16129 Genoa, Italy
| | - Monica Dellepiane
- Department of Savona, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d’Aosta, Via Martiri 6, 17056 Savona, Italy
| | - Nicola Pussini
- Department of Imperia, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d’Aosta, Via Nizza 4, 18100 Imperia, Italy
| | - Francesco Brunelli
- Department of Imperia, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d’Aosta, Via Nizza 4, 18100 Imperia, Italy
| | - Simone Peletto
- Department of Turin, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d’Aosta, Via Bologna 148, 10154 Turin, Italy
| | - Chiara Beltramo
- Department of Turin, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d’Aosta, Via Bologna 148, 10154 Turin, Italy
| | - Carlo Ercolini
- Department of La Spezia, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d’Aosta, Via degli Stagnoni 96, 19100 La Spezia, Italy
| | - Chiara Masotti
- Department of La Spezia, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d’Aosta, Via degli Stagnoni 96, 19100 La Spezia, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Current Knowledge of Hepatitis E Virus (HEV) Epidemiology in Ruminants. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11101124. [PMID: 36297181 PMCID: PMC9609093 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11101124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection represents an emerging public health concern worldwide. In industrialized countries, increasing numbers of autochthonous cases of human HEV infection are caused by zoonotic transmission of genotypes 3 and 4, mainly through the consumption of contaminated raw or undercooked meat of infected pigs and wild boars, which are considered the main reservoirs of HEV. However, in the last few years, accumulating evidence seems to indicate that several other animals, including different ruminant species, may harbor HEV. Understanding the impact of HEV infection in ruminants and identifying the risk factors affecting transmission among animals and to humans is critical in order to determine their role in the epidemiological cycle of HEV. In this review, we provide a summary of current knowledge on HEV ecology in ruminants. A growing body of evidence has revealed that these animal species may be potential important hosts of HEV, raising concerns about the possible implications for public health.
Collapse
|
7
|
Hepatitis E Virus; An Underestimated Threat for the Viral Hepatitis Elimination Program. HEPATITIS MONTHLY 2022. [DOI: 10.5812/hepatmon-129678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
|
8
|
Characteristics of hepatitis E viral infections in Hungary. J Clin Virol 2022; 155:105250. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcv.2022.105250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Revised: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
|
9
|
De Sabato L, Suffredini E, Di Pasquale S, La Rosa G, De Santis P, Giammarioli M, Vaccari G, Bartolo ID. Novel subtypes and unexpected heterogeneity of hepatitis E viral strains in wild boar captured in a small area in Central Italy. Transbound Emerg Dis 2022; 69:e2541-e2550. [DOI: 10.1111/tbed.14598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Revised: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Luca De Sabato
- Department of Food Safety Nutrition and Veterinary Public Health Istituto Superiore di Sanità Viale Regina Elena, 299 Rome 00161 Italy
| | - Elisabetta Suffredini
- Department of Food Safety Nutrition and Veterinary Public Health Istituto Superiore di Sanità Viale Regina Elena, 299 Rome 00161 Italy
| | - Simona Di Pasquale
- Department of Food Safety Nutrition and Veterinary Public Health Istituto Superiore di Sanità Viale Regina Elena, 299 Rome 00161 Italy
| | - Giuseppina La Rosa
- Department of Environment and Health Istituto Superiore di Sanità Viale Regina Elena, 299 Rome 00161 Italy
| | - Paola De Santis
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana "M. Aleandri'' Via Appia Nuova, 1411 Rome 00178 Italy
| | - Monica Giammarioli
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell'Umbria e delle Marche “Togo Rosati” Via Salvemini, 1 Perugia 06100 Italy
| | - Gabriele Vaccari
- Department of Food Safety Nutrition and Veterinary Public Health Istituto Superiore di Sanità Viale Regina Elena, 299 Rome 00161 Italy
| | - Ilaria Di Bartolo
- Department of Food Safety Nutrition and Veterinary Public Health Istituto Superiore di Sanità Viale Regina Elena, 299 Rome 00161 Italy
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Fonti N, Pacini MI, Forzan M, Parisi F, Periccioli M, Mazzei M, Poli A. Molecular and Pathological Detection of Hepatitis E Virus in Roe Deer (Capreolus capreolus) and Fallow Deer (Dama dama) in Central Italy. Vet Sci 2022; 9:vetsci9030100. [PMID: 35324829 PMCID: PMC8950858 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci9030100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Revised: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a common causative agent of acute hepatitis in the world, with a serious public health burden in both developing and industrialized countries. Cervids, along with wild boars and lagomorphs, are the main wild hosts of HEV in Europe and constitute a documented source of infection for humans. The aim of this study was to evaluate the presence of HEV in roe deer (Capreolus capreolus) and fallow deer (Dama dama) living in Tuscany, Central Italy. Liver samples from 48 roe deer and 60 fallow deer were collected from carcasses during the hunting seasons. Following the results obtained from molecular and histopathologic studies, 5/48 (10.4%) roe deer and 1/60 (1.7%) fallow deer liver samples were positive for the presence of HEV RNA. All PCR-positive livers were also IHC-positive for viral antigen presence, associated with degenerative and inflammatory lesions with predominantly CD3+ cellular infiltrates. This study represents the first identification in Italy of HEV RNA in roe and fallow deer and the first study in literature describing liver alterations associated with HEV infection in cervids. These results demonstrate that HEV is present in wild cervid populations in Italy and confirm the potential zoonotic role of these species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Niccolò Fonti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie, Università di Pisa, Viale delle Piagge, 2-56124 Pisa, Italy; (N.F.); (M.I.P.); (M.F.); (F.P.); (M.M.)
| | - Maria Irene Pacini
- Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie, Università di Pisa, Viale delle Piagge, 2-56124 Pisa, Italy; (N.F.); (M.I.P.); (M.F.); (F.P.); (M.M.)
| | - Mario Forzan
- Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie, Università di Pisa, Viale delle Piagge, 2-56124 Pisa, Italy; (N.F.); (M.I.P.); (M.F.); (F.P.); (M.M.)
| | - Francesca Parisi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie, Università di Pisa, Viale delle Piagge, 2-56124 Pisa, Italy; (N.F.); (M.I.P.); (M.F.); (F.P.); (M.M.)
| | - Marcello Periccioli
- Unità Funzionale di Sanità Pubblica Veterinaria e Sicurezza Alimentare Zona Distretto Grossetana, Dipartimento di Prevenzione, Azienda USL Toscana Sud Est, Amiata Grossetana e Colline Metallifere, Viale Cimabue, 109-58100 Grosseto, Italy;
| | - Maurizio Mazzei
- Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie, Università di Pisa, Viale delle Piagge, 2-56124 Pisa, Italy; (N.F.); (M.I.P.); (M.F.); (F.P.); (M.M.)
| | - Alessandro Poli
- Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie, Università di Pisa, Viale delle Piagge, 2-56124 Pisa, Italy; (N.F.); (M.I.P.); (M.F.); (F.P.); (M.M.)
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Fanelli A, Tizzani P, Buonavoglia D. A systematic review and meta-analysis of hepatitis E virus (HEV) in wild boars. Res Vet Sci 2021; 142:54-69. [PMID: 34864434 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2021.11.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2021] [Revised: 05/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
This systematic review and meta-analysis summarize the available information on Hepatitis E virus (HEV) -specific antibody seroprevalence and HEV RNA prevalence in wild boar, one of the most abundant game species worldwide. A literature search (CAB Abstracts, Web of Science, Embase and Scopus) was performed to find relevant peer-reviewed works published during the period 1990-2020. A random-effect model was carried out to calculate the pooled HEV-specific antibody seroprevalence and HEV RNA prevalence estimates with 95% confidence intervals, and I2 statistic was used to assess the heterogeneity of the data. Values by subgroups were compared according to the geographical area, age class (≤ 12 months old and > 12 months old), and sample type (bile, faeces, liver, meat/muscle, serum). Sixty-nine publications were selected, with the majority of the studies from Southern Europe (n = 27). The pooled HEV-specific antibody seroprevalence in wild boar was 28% (CI95% 23-34) and the HEV RNA prevalence 8% (CI95% 6-10). The analysis highlighted a significant heterogeneity among the estimates from the included studies (I2 = 98% and I2 = 95% for HEV-specific antibody seroprevalence and viral prevalence respectively). The moderator analysis indicated a statistically significant difference (p-value = 0.03) for the HEV RNA prevalence according to the sample type, with the highest value in bile (17%, CI95% 9-27), followed by liver (10%, CI95% 7-14), serum (7%, CI95% 4-10), faeces (5%, CI95% 2-9), and meat/muscle (3%, CI95% 0.04-10). Finally, the HEV RNA prevalence in Europe (8.7, CI95% 6.7-11) was significantly (p-value = 0.04) higher than in Asia (4, CI95% 0.6-8). The analysis highlights the important role of wild boar in the epidemiology of HEV.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Angela Fanelli
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari, Valenzano, Bari, Italy.
| | - Paolo Tizzani
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Grugliasco, Turin, Italy
| | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Jackova A, Dudasova K, Salamunova S, Mandelik R, Novotny J, Vilcek S. Identification and genetic diversity of hepatitis E virus in domestic swine from Slovakia. BMC Vet Res 2021; 17:232. [PMID: 34193126 PMCID: PMC8246685 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-021-02936-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is agent causing hepatitis worldwide. Originally considered to be limited to developing countries, this virus was also detected in developed countries. In recent years an increasing number of reports indicate that farmed domestic pigs are widely infected with HEV in several European countries. The HEV status in Slovakia is still missing. Results In this study, the circulation of HEV among domestic swine in Slovakia and genetic diversity of the virus was studied. Overall HEV RNA was detected in 53/388 (13.7, 95% CI: 10.40–17.48%) pig rectal swabs in five production stages (age categories) with statistically significant differences among all the stages. The highest HEV prevalence was observed in weaners 24/81 (29.6, 95% CI: 19.99–40.81%) and then significantly declined in growers and fatteners. No HEV was detected in suckling piglets and sows. Twenty-eight partial sequences of ORF1 (242 bp) and seventeen of ORF2 (304 bp) were analysed. Phylogenetic analysis and p-distance comparisons confirmed in both ORFs that all Slovak HEV sequences belong to the genotype HEV-3, major clade 3abchij with higher identity to 3a and 3i subtypes. Three sequences were outside of all lastly updated HEV-3 subtypes. Conclusion This is the first report to fill the information gap about HEV infection in pigs in Slovakia. The results suggested a lower prevalence of HEV in Slovak pig farms than observed in other European countries. While most HEV isolates were typed as HEV-3 clade 3abchij, three sequences were unclassified.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Jackova
- Department of Epizootiology, Parasitology and Protection of One Health, University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy, Komenskeho 73, 041 81, Kosice, Slovakia
| | - Katarina Dudasova
- Department of Epizootiology, Parasitology and Protection of One Health, University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy, Komenskeho 73, 041 81, Kosice, Slovakia
| | - Slavomira Salamunova
- Department of Epizootiology, Parasitology and Protection of One Health, University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy, Komenskeho 73, 041 81, Kosice, Slovakia
| | - Rene Mandelik
- Department of Epizootiology, Parasitology and Protection of One Health, University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy, Komenskeho 73, 041 81, Kosice, Slovakia
| | - Jaroslav Novotny
- Clinic of Swine, University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy, Komenskeho 73, 041 81, Kosice, Slovakia
| | - Stefan Vilcek
- Department of Epizootiology, Parasitology and Protection of One Health, University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy, Komenskeho 73, 041 81, Kosice, Slovakia.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Genetic Diversity and Epidemiological Significance of Wild Boar HEV-3 Strains Circulating in Poland. Viruses 2021; 13:v13061176. [PMID: 34205456 PMCID: PMC8235543 DOI: 10.3390/v13061176] [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: 04/23/2021] [Revised: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The wild boar is the most important reservoir of zoonotic HEV-3 strains among different wildlife species. The aim of the study was subtype identification of wild boar HEV-3 strains circulating in Poland. Wild boar liver was used in the study in the form of homogenates prepared from 57 samples positive for HEV in a real-time RT-PCR. These samples were collected from juvenile and adult wild boars hunted in the jurisdictions of different Regional Directorates of State Forests (RDSF) across Poland. Subtype identification of detected HEV strains was based on a phylogenetic analysis of the most conserved HEV ORF2 genome fragment. Out of 57 tested samples, consensus HEV ORF2 sequences of 348 bp were obtained for 45 strains. Nineteen strains were identified and belonged to the HEV gt 3a and 3i subtypes, whereas 26 were not assigned to any virus subtype. HEV gt 3i strains prevailed in the Polish wild boar population, 16 of such were identified, and they were significantly more often observed in the RDSF Katowice area (χ2 = 28.6, p = 0.027 (<0.05)) compared to other regions of the country. Circulation of 3a strains was limited only to the RDSF Gdańsk territory (χ2 = 48, p = 0.000 (<0.05)). The virus strains detected in the Polish population of wild boars representing previously identified HEV subtypes in wild boars, pigs, or humans in Europe are of epidemiological importance for public health.
Collapse
|
14
|
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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Slukinova OS, Kyuregyan KK, Karlsen AA, Potemkin IA, Kichatova VS, Semenov SI, Stepanov KM, Rumyantseva TD, Mikhailov MI. Serological Evidence of Hepatitis E Virus Circulation Among Reindeer and Reindeer Herders. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2021; 21:546-551. [PMID: 34010077 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2020.2727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Various deer species are infected with hepatitis E virus (HEV) and may be a source of zoonotic infection for humans. So far, HEV has not been isolated from reindeer and the role of this domesticated deer species in HEV transmission is unknown. We tested serum samples from 191 reindeer (Rangifer tarandus) and 86 adult reindeer herders from the circumpolar regions of Yakutia (Russian Federation) for anti-HEV and HEV RNA. Anti-HEV IgG prevalence was 12.0% (95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 8.1-17.5) in reindeer and 4.7% (95% CI: 1.5-11.7) in reindeer herders. The latter was similar to the positivity rate observed in adult residents of the city of Yakutsk, the capital of Yakutia, who do not have routine contact with reindeer (3.7% [19/519, 95% CI: 2.3-5.7]). No samples positive for HEV RNA were identified. The study provides evidence of HEV circulation in reindeer. Nevertheless, the low seroprevalence in reindeer herders indicate a low risk of zoonotic HEV infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Olga S Slukinova
- Mechnikov Research Institute for Vaccines and Sera, Moscow, Russia
| | - Karen K Kyuregyan
- Mechnikov Research Institute for Vaccines and Sera, Moscow, Russia.,Department of Viral Hepatitis, Russian Medical Academy of Continuous Professional Education, Moscow, Russia
| | - Anastasiya A Karlsen
- Mechnikov Research Institute for Vaccines and Sera, Moscow, Russia.,Department of Viral Hepatitis, Russian Medical Academy of Continuous Professional Education, Moscow, Russia
| | - Ilya A Potemkin
- Mechnikov Research Institute for Vaccines and Sera, Moscow, Russia.,Department of Viral Hepatitis, Russian Medical Academy of Continuous Professional Education, Moscow, Russia
| | - Vera S Kichatova
- Mechnikov Research Institute for Vaccines and Sera, Moscow, Russia.,Department of Viral Hepatitis, Russian Medical Academy of Continuous Professional Education, Moscow, Russia
| | - Sergey I Semenov
- Medical Institute of the North-Eastern Federal University Named After M.K. Ammosov, Yakutsk, Republic of Sakha (Yakutia), Russia
| | - Konstantin M Stepanov
- Arctic State Agrotechnological University, Yakutsk, Republic of Sakha (Yakutia), Russia
| | - Tatyana D Rumyantseva
- Arctic State Agrotechnological University, Yakutsk, Republic of Sakha (Yakutia), Russia
| | - Mikhail I Mikhailov
- Mechnikov Research Institute for Vaccines and Sera, Moscow, Russia.,Department of Viral Hepatitis, Russian Medical Academy of Continuous Professional Education, Moscow, Russia
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Surveillance Study of Hepatitis E Virus (HEV) in Domestic and Wild Ruminants in Northwestern Italy. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10122351. [PMID: 33317114 PMCID: PMC7764585 DOI: 10.3390/ani10122351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2020] [Revised: 12/06/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection can cause both acute and chronic hepatitis in humans and represents an emerging public health concern worldwide. In developed countries, zoonotic transmission of HEV genotypes 3 and 4 is caused by ingestion of raw or undercooked meat of infected swine or wild boars, the main reservoirs of HEV. However, in the last few years, molecular and serological evidence seem to indicate that several other animal species may act as HEV host, including domestic and wild ruminants. In this study, serum and fecal specimens from sheep, goats, red deer, roe deer, chamois, and Alpine ibex collected in two northwestern Italian regions (Piemonte and Valle d’Aosta) were screened molecularly and serologically. With the exception of chamois, HEV antibodies were found both in the domestic and wild ruminant species investigated with the highest rates in sheep and goats. These findings demonstrate that wild also domestic ruminants may be implicated in the viral cycle transmission. Abstract In industrialized countries, increasing autochthonous infections of hepatitis E virus (HEV) are caused by zoonotic transmission of genotypes (Gts) 3 and 4, mainly through consumption of contaminated raw or undercooked pork meat. Although swine and wild boar are recognized as the main reservoir for Gt3 and Gt4, accumulating evidence indicates that other animal species, including domestic and wild ruminants, may harbor HEV. Herein, we screened molecularly and serologically serum and fecal samples from two domestic and four wild ruminant species collected in Valle d’Aosta and Piemonte regions (northwestern Italy. HEV antibodies were found in sheep (21.6%), goats (11.4%), red deer (2.6%), roe deer (3.1%), and in Alpine ibex (6.3%). Molecular screening was performed using different primer sets targeting highly conserved regions of hepeviruses and HEV RNA, although at low viral loads, was detected in four fecal specimens (3.0%, 4/134) collected from two HEV seropositive sheep herds. Taken together, the data obtained document the circulation of HEV in the geographical area assessed both in wild and domestic ruminants, but with the highest seroprevalence in sheep and goats. Consistently with results from other studies conducted in southern Italy, circulation of HEV among small domestic ruminants seems to occur more frequently than expected.
Collapse
|
17
|
Loikkanen E, Oristo S, Hämäläinen N, Jokelainen P, Kantala T, Sukura A, Maunula L. Antibodies Against Hepatitis E Virus (HEV) in European Moose and White-Tailed Deer in Finland. FOOD AND ENVIRONMENTAL VIROLOGY 2020; 12:333-341. [PMID: 32894411 PMCID: PMC7658061 DOI: 10.1007/s12560-020-09442-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Accepted: 08/27/2020] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
The main animal reservoirs of zoonotic hepatitis E virus (HEV) are domestic pigs and wild boars, but HEV also infects cervids. In this study, we estimated the prevalence of HEV in Finnish cervid species that are commonly hunted for human consumption. We investigated sera from 342 European moose (Alces alces), 70 white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus), and 12 European roe deer (Capreolus capreolus). The samples had been collected from legally hunted animals from different districts of Finland during 2008-2009. We analysed the samples for total anti-HEV antibodies using a double-sandwich ELISA assay. Seropositive sera were analysed with RT-qPCR for HEV RNA. HEV seroprevalence was 9.1% (31/342) in moose and 1.4% (1/70) in white-tailed deer. None of the European roe deer were HEV seropositive (0/12). No HEV RNA was detected from samples of seropositive animals. HEV seropositive moose were detected in all districts. Statistically, HEV seroprevalence in moose was significantly higher (p < 0.05) in the North-East area compared to the South-West area. The highest HEV seroprevalence (20.0%) in district level was more than six times higher than the lowest (3.1%). We demonstrated the presence of total anti-HEV antibodies in European moose and white-tailed deer in Finland. Our results suggest that HEV is circulating among the moose population. Infections may occur also in white-tailed deer. We were the first to report a HEV seropositive white-tailed deer from Europe. Further studies are needed to demonstrate the HEV genotypes in cervids in Finland and to evaluate the importance of the findings in relation to food safety.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emil Loikkanen
- Department of Food Hygiene and Environmental Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.
| | - Satu Oristo
- Department of Food Hygiene and Environmental Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Natalia Hämäläinen
- Department of Food Hygiene and Environmental Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Pikka Jokelainen
- Infectious Disease Preparedness, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Tuija Kantala
- Department of Food Hygiene and Environmental Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Virology Unit, Finnish Food Authority, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Antti Sukura
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Leena Maunula
- Department of Food Hygiene and Environmental Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Four-year long (2014-2017) clinical and laboratory surveillance of hepatitis E virus infections using combined antibody, molecular, antigen and avidity detection methods: Increasing incidence and chronic HEV case in Hungary. J Clin Virol 2020; 124:104284. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcv.2020.104284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2019] [Revised: 01/15/2020] [Accepted: 01/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
|
19
|
De Sabato L, Di Bartolo I, Lapa D, Capobianchi MR, Garbuglia AR. Molecular Characterization of HEV Genotype 3 in Italy at Human/Animal Interface. Front Microbiol 2020; 11:137. [PMID: 32117156 PMCID: PMC7014918 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2020.00137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2019] [Accepted: 01/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is an emerging public health issue in industrialized countries. In the last decade the number of autochthonous human infections has increased in Europe. Genotype 3 (HEV-3) is typically zoonotic, being foodborne the main route of transmission to humans, and is the most frequently detected in Europe in both humans and animals (mainly pigs and wild boars). In Italy, the first autochthonous human case was reported in 1999; since then, HEV-3 has been widely detected in both humans and animals. Despite the zoonotic characteristic of HEV-3 is well established, the correlation between animal and human strains has been poorly investigated in Italy. In the present study, we compared the subtype distribution of HEV-3 in humans and animals (swine and wild boar) in the period 2000-2018 from Italy. The dataset for this analysis included a total of 96 Italian ORF2 sequences (300 nt long), including both NCBI database-derived (n = 64) and recent sequences (2016-2018, n = 32) obtained in this study. The results show that subtype 3f is the most frequent in humans and pigs, followed by the HEV-3e, HEV-3c and other unassignable HEV-3 strains. Diversely, in wild boar a wider group of HEV-3 subtypes have been detected, including HEV-3a, which has also been detected for the first time in a human patient in Central Italy in 2017, and a wide group of unassignable HEV-3 strains. The phylogenetic analysis including, besides Italian strains, also sequences from other countries retrieved from the NCBI database, indicated that human Italian sequences, in particular those of HEV-3f and HEV-3e, form significant clusters mainly with sequences of animal origin from the same country. Nevertheless, for HEV-3c, rarely detected in Italian pigs, human sequences from Italy are more correlated to human sequences from other European countries. Furthermore, clusters of near-identical human strains identified in a short time interval in Lazio Region (Central Italy) can be recognized in the phylogenetic tree, suggesting that multiple infections originating from a common source have occurred, and confirming the importance of sequencing support to HEV surveillance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luca De Sabato
- Department of Food Safety, Nutrition and Veterinary Public Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Ilaria Di Bartolo
- Department of Food Safety, Nutrition and Veterinary Public Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Daniele Lapa
- Laboratory of Virology, “L. Spallanzani” National Institute for Infectious Diseases, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Rosaria Capobianchi
- Laboratory of Virology, “L. Spallanzani” National Institute for Infectious Diseases, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Anna Rosa Garbuglia
- Laboratory of Virology, “L. Spallanzani” National Institute for Infectious Diseases, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
The Current Host Range of Hepatitis E Viruses. Viruses 2019; 11:v11050452. [PMID: 31108942 PMCID: PMC6563279 DOI: 10.3390/v11050452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2019] [Revised: 05/08/2019] [Accepted: 05/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is an emerging zoonotic pathogen transmitting both human to human via the fecal oral route and from animals to humans through feces, direct contact, and consumption of contaminated meat products. Understanding the host range of the virus is critical for determining where potential threats to human health may be emerging from and where potential reservoirs for viral persistence in the environment may be hiding. Initially thought to be a human specific disease endemic to developing countries, the identification of swine as a primary host for genotypes 3 and 4 HEV in industrialized countries has begun a long journey of discovering novel strains of HEV and their animal hosts. As we continue identifying new strains of HEV in disparate animal species, it is becoming abundantly clear that HEV has a broad host range and many of these HEV strains can cross between differing animal species. These cross-species transmitting strains pose many unique challenges to human health as they are often unrecognized as sources of viral transmission.
Collapse
|
21
|
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.
Collapse
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.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Hepatitis E virus infection in different groups of Estonian patients and people who inject drugs. J Clin Virol 2018; 104:5-10. [PMID: 29702351 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcv.2018.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2018] [Revised: 04/09/2018] [Accepted: 04/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previously we demonstrated a high prevalence of hepatitis E virus (HEV) in domestic pigs and wild boars, the main reservoir and possible source of HEV infections in humans. But so far there are no reports about spread of HEV in Estonian human population. OBJECTIVES The present study aimed to determine the prevalence and genotyping of HEV in different groups of the Estonian adult population. STUDY DESIGN Totally 1426 human serum samples were tested (763 patients with clinically diagnosed nonA/B/C hepatitis, 176 hemodialysis patients, 282 patients with suspected HEV infection and 205 people who injected drugs (PWID)). Presence of anti-HEVantibodies was assessed by ELISA and confirmed by immunoblotting. All anti-HEV positive sera were analyzed for RNA by qPCR. Amplified ORF2 region was sequenced and used for phylogenetic analysis. RESULTS Antibody assay revealed 49 samples from 1426 (3.4%) with acute (17) or past (32) HEV infection. HEV RNA was detected in 10 anti-HEV IgM positive samples, including 9 samples from patients with suspected HEV infection and 1 hemodialysis patient. Anti-HEV IgG were found in 7.8% patients with suspected HEV infection, in 4% hemodialysis patients, in 2.4% PWID and in 1.96% patients with nonA/B/C hepatitis. All groups demonstrated a trend to share of anti-HEV seroprevalence increasing with age. Phylogenetic analysis of 9 HEV RNA sequences revealed that 3 sequences belonged to HEV genotype 1; 6 ones to genotype 3 (1 sequence belonged to sub-genotype 3a, two ones - sub-genotype 3e, and three ones - to sub-genotype 3f). CONCLUSIONS Despite the high seroprevalence among domestic pigs, no evidence of HEV transmission from Estonian pigs to humans was found. The results of our study suggest that HEV infections in Estonia are most likely associated with travel or with consumption of imported food products.
Collapse
|
24
|
Rivero-Juarez A, Risalde MA, Frias M, García-Bocanegra I, Lopez-Lopez P, Cano-Terriza D, Camacho A, Jimenez-Ruiz S, Gomez-Villamandos JC, Rivero A. Prevalence of hepatitis E virus infection in wild boars from Spain: a possible seasonal pattern? BMC Vet Res 2018; 14:54. [PMID: 29482645 PMCID: PMC5828074 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-018-1377-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2017] [Accepted: 02/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND It has been shown that wildlife can serve as natural reservoirs of hepatitis E virus (HEV). The wild boar (Sus scrofa) is probably the main natural reservoir of HEV and could therefore represent an important route of transmission in Europe, especially in regions where game meat is widely consumed. We evaluated the prevalence of HEV infection in wild boar in the south of Spain, with the aim of identifying associated risk factors. A cross-sectional study that included hunted wild boar was carried out during the 2015/2016 hunting season (October 15 to February 15) in Andalusia (southern Spain). The outcome variable was HEV infection, defined as amplification of HEV RNA in serum by RT-PCR. RESULTS A total of 142 animals, selected from 12 hunting areas, were included and formed the study population. Thirty-three wild boars (23.2%; 95% CI: 16.8%-30.7%) were positive for HEV infection. Prevalence peaked in October and November, then gradually declined until the end of December. After multivariate analysis, only hunting date was independently associated with HEV infection across sex and age. CONCLUSIONS Our study found a relatively high prevalence of HEV infection in wild boar in the south of Spain, suggesting that prevalence may depend on the season when the animal is hunted. In consequence, the potential risk of zoonotic transmission could fluctuate.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Rivero-Juarez
- Infectious Diseases Unit. Instituto Maimonides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía de Córdoba. Universidad de Córdoba, 2° Floor. Box 134.Avenida Menendez Pidal s/n, 14004, Córdoba, Spain.
| | - María A Risalde
- Infectious Diseases Unit. Instituto Maimonides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía de Córdoba. Universidad de Córdoba, 2° Floor. Box 134.Avenida Menendez Pidal s/n, 14004, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Mario Frias
- Infectious Diseases Unit. Instituto Maimonides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía de Córdoba. Universidad de Córdoba, 2° Floor. Box 134.Avenida Menendez Pidal s/n, 14004, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Ignacio García-Bocanegra
- Animal Health Department. Veterinary Science College, Universidad de Córdoba, 14014, Cordoba, Spain
| | - Pedro Lopez-Lopez
- Infectious Diseases Unit. Instituto Maimonides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía de Córdoba. Universidad de Córdoba, 2° Floor. Box 134.Avenida Menendez Pidal s/n, 14004, Córdoba, Spain
| | - David Cano-Terriza
- Animal Health Department. Veterinary Science College, Universidad de Córdoba, 14014, Cordoba, Spain
| | - Angela Camacho
- Infectious Diseases Unit. Instituto Maimonides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía de Córdoba. Universidad de Córdoba, 2° Floor. Box 134.Avenida Menendez Pidal s/n, 14004, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Saul Jimenez-Ruiz
- Animal Health Department. Veterinary Science College, Universidad de Córdoba, 14014, Cordoba, Spain
| | | | - Antonio Rivero
- Infectious Diseases Unit. Instituto Maimonides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía de Córdoba. Universidad de Córdoba, 2° Floor. Box 134.Avenida Menendez Pidal s/n, 14004, Córdoba, Spain.,Unidad de Enfermedades Infecciosas. Hospital Provincial, Complejo Hospitalario reina Sofía de Córdoba, Avenida Menendez Pidal s/n, 14006, Cordoba, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Pavio N, Doceul V, Bagdassarian E, Johne R. Recent knowledge on hepatitis E virus in Suidae reservoirs and transmission routes to human. Vet Res 2017; 48:78. [PMID: 29157309 PMCID: PMC5696788 DOI: 10.1186/s13567-017-0483-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 126] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2017] [Accepted: 10/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) causes self-limiting acute hepatitis in humans that can eventually result in acute liver failures or progress to chronic infections. While in tropical and sub-tropical areas, HEV infections are associated with important waterborne epidemics, in Northern countries, HEV infections are autochthonous with a zoonotic origin. In the past decade, it has become clear that certain HEV genotypes are zoonotic and that swine, and more generally Suidae, are the main reservoir. Zoonotic transmissions of the virus may occur via direct contact with infected pigs, wild boars or consumption of contaminated meat. This review describes the current knowledge on domestic and wild Suidae as reservoirs of HEV and the evidence of the different routes of HEV transmission between these animals and humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Pavio
- Animal Health Laboratory, UMR 1161 Virology, ANSES, Maisons-Alfort, France
- UMR 1161 Virology, INRA, Maisons-Alfort, France
- UMR 1161 Virology, PRES University Paris 12, National Veterinary School, Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Virginie Doceul
- Animal Health Laboratory, UMR 1161 Virology, ANSES, Maisons-Alfort, France
- UMR 1161 Virology, INRA, Maisons-Alfort, France
- UMR 1161 Virology, PRES University Paris 12, National Veterinary School, Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Eugénie Bagdassarian
- Animal Health Laboratory, UMR 1161 Virology, ANSES, Maisons-Alfort, France
- UMR 1161 Virology, INRA, Maisons-Alfort, France
- UMR 1161 Virology, PRES University Paris 12, National Veterinary School, Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Reimar Johne
- German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment, Berlin, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Porea D, Anita A, Demange A, Raileanu C, Oslobanu Ludu L, Anita D, Savuta G, Pavio N. Molecular detection of hepatitis E virus in wild boar population in eastern Romania. Transbound Emerg Dis 2017; 65:527-533. [PMID: 29027370 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.12736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
In industrialized countries, Hepatitis E is a recognized zoonosis, with wild boar and swine representing the main reservoirs for zoonotic genotype HEV-3 in Europe. Data related to HEV infection in wild boar population in Romania are restricted to serological surveys. Therefore, our main goal was to determine the HEV prevalence in wild boar population and to characterize HEV strains circulating in Romania. Using TaqMan real-time RT-PCR assay, we analyzed the presence of RNA HEV in 45 liver samples and five spleen samples collected from 50 wild boars. Samples were collected during the 2013-2015 hunting seasons. Nine samples of 50 were tested positive for HEV RNA, resulting an overall prevalence of 18%. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the isolates clustered in different HEV-3 monophyletic groups, depending on the sampling county. This is the first study signalling, based on molecular analysis, the presence of HEV in wild boar population from Romania. Also, in this study, we report the detection of HEV in splenic tissue from wild boar.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- D Porea
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Iasi, Romania
| | - A Anita
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Iasi, Romania
| | - A Demange
- Animal Health Laboratory, UMR 1161 Virology, ANSES, Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - C Raileanu
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Iasi, Romania
| | - L Oslobanu Ludu
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Iasi, Romania
| | - D Anita
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Iasi, Romania
| | - G Savuta
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Iasi, Romania
| | - N Pavio
- Animal Health Laboratory, UMR 1161 Virology, ANSES, Maisons-Alfort, France
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Spahr C, Knauf-Witzens T, Vahlenkamp T, Ulrich RG, Johne R. Hepatitis E virus and related viruses in wild, domestic and zoo animals: A review. Zoonoses Public Health 2017; 65:11-29. [PMID: 28944602 DOI: 10.1111/zph.12405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2017] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis E is a human disease mainly characterized by acute liver illness, which is caused by infection with the hepatitis E virus (HEV). Large hepatitis E outbreaks have been described in developing countries; however, the disease is also increasingly recognized in industrialized countries. Mortality rates up to 25% have been described for pregnant women during outbreaks in developing countries. In addition, chronic disease courses could be observed in immunocompromised transplant patients. Whereas the HEV genotypes 1 and 2 are mainly confined to humans, genotypes 3 and 4 are also found in animals and can be zoonotically transmitted to humans. Domestic pig and wild boar represent the most important reservoirs for these genotypes. A distinct subtype of genotype 3 has been repeatedly detected in rabbits and a few human patients. Recently, HEV genotype 7 has been identified in dromedary camels and in an immunocompromised transplant patient. The reservoir animals get infected with HEV without showing any clinical symptoms. Besides these well-known animal reservoirs, HEV-specific antibodies and/or the genome of HEV or HEV-related viruses have also been detected in many other animal species, including primates, other mammals and birds. In particular, genotypes 3 and 4 infections are documented in many domestic, wildlife and zoo animal species. In most cases, the presence of HEV in these animals can be explained by spillover infections, but a risk of virus transmission through contact with humans cannot be excluded. This review gives a general overview on the transmission pathways of HEV to humans. It particularly focuses on reported serological and molecular evidence of infections in wild, domestic and zoo animals with HEV or HEV-related viruses. The role of these animals for transmission of HEV to humans and other animals is discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C Spahr
- Wilhelma Zoological-Botanical Gardens, Stuttgart, Germany.,Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Institute of Virology, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | | | - T Vahlenkamp
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Institute of Virology, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - R G Ulrich
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Institute of Novel and Emerging Infectious Diseases, Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany.,German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), partner site Hamburg-Luebeck-Borstel-Insel Riems, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - R Johne
- Department Biological Safety, German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment, Berlin, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Zhao C, Geng Y, Huang W, Ma H, Wang Y. Valuable antibody detection method for classifying hepatitis E virus genotypes. J Med Virol 2017; 90:142-147. [DOI: 10.1002/jmv.24915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2017] [Accepted: 07/31/2017] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Chenyan Zhao
- Division of HIV/AIDS and Sex-transmitted Virus Vaccines; National Institutes for Food and Drug Control; Tiantanxili Beijing China
| | - Yansheng Geng
- Health Science Center; Hebei University; Yuhuadonglu Baoding China
| | - Weijing Huang
- Division of HIV/AIDS and Sex-transmitted Virus Vaccines; National Institutes for Food and Drug Control; Tiantanxili Beijing China
| | - Hongxia Ma
- Henan Provincial Center for Disease Prevention and Control; Nongyenanlu Zhengzhou China
| | - Youchun Wang
- Division of HIV/AIDS and Sex-transmitted Virus Vaccines; National Institutes for Food and Drug Control; Tiantanxili Beijing China
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Jackova A, Mandelik R, Novotny J, Salamunova S, Vilcek S. The Incidence of Hepatitis E Virus in Domestic Pigs. FOLIA VETERINARIA 2017. [DOI: 10.1515/fv-2017-0029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is the causative agent of hepatitis E — an emerging zoonotic disease distributed worldwide. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of HEV in Slovakian domestic pigs, as this has not been studied yet. Clinical samples (n = 269) from fourteen randomly selected domestic pig farms for three different age categories of pigs were analysed and the subsequently detected isolates were genetically characterized. The reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) analysis revealed that 32 pigs (11.9 %) of all age categories were HEV RNA positive. The highest occurrence was detected in fattening pigs (14.8 %) and the lowest in weaning pigs (12.5 %). The HEV RNA was not observed at all in the youngest category (the suckling piglets). The phylogenetic analysis revealed that all Slovak HEV isolates clustered into two genetic groups of the genotype HEV-3.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A. Jackova
- University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy , Kosice , Slovakia
| | - R. Mandelik
- University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy , Kosice , Slovakia
| | - J. Novotny
- University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy , Kosice , Slovakia
| | - S. Salamunova
- University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy , Kosice , Slovakia
| | - S. Vilcek
- University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy , Kosice , Slovakia
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Salines M, Andraud M, Rose N. From the epidemiology of hepatitis E virus (HEV) within the swine reservoir to public health risk mitigation strategies: a comprehensive review. Vet Res 2017; 48:31. [PMID: 28545558 PMCID: PMC5445439 DOI: 10.1186/s13567-017-0436-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2017] [Accepted: 04/19/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is the causative agent of hepatitis E in humans, an emerging zoonosis mainly transmitted via food in developed countries and for which domestic pigs are recognised as the main reservoir. It therefore appears important to understand the features and drivers of HEV infection dynamics on pig farms in order to implement HEV surveillance programmes and to assess and manage public health risks. The authors have reviewed the international scientific literature on the epidemiological characteristics of HEV in swine populations. Although prevalence estimates differed greatly from one study to another, all consistently reported high variability between farms, suggesting the existence of multifactorial conditions related to infection and within-farm transmission of the virus. Longitudinal studies and experimental trials have provided estimates of epidemiological parameters governing the transmission process (e.g. age at infection, transmission parameters, shedding period duration or lag time before the onset of an immune response). Farming practices, passive immunity and co-infection with immunosuppressive agents were identified as the main factors influencing HEV infection dynamics, but further investigations are needed to clarify the different HEV infection patterns observed in pig herds as well as HEV transmission between farms. Relevant surveillance programmes and control measures from farm to fork also have to be fostered to reduce the prevalence of contaminated pork products entering the food chain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Morgane Salines
- ANSES-Ploufragan-Plouzané Laboratory, BP 53, 22440, Ploufragan, France. .,Université Bretagne Loire, Rennes, France.
| | - Mathieu Andraud
- ANSES-Ploufragan-Plouzané Laboratory, BP 53, 22440, Ploufragan, France.,Université Bretagne Loire, Rennes, France
| | - Nicolas Rose
- ANSES-Ploufragan-Plouzané Laboratory, BP 53, 22440, Ploufragan, France.,Université Bretagne Loire, Rennes, France
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
|
32
|
Adelabu OA, Chuks Iweriebor B, Nwodo UU, Obi LC, Okoh AI. Incidence and Molecular Characterization of Hepatitis E Virus from Swine in Eastern Cape, South Africa. Adv Virol 2017; 2017:1073253. [PMID: 28191016 PMCID: PMC5278201 DOI: 10.1155/2017/1073253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2016] [Accepted: 12/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus-mediated infection is a serious public health concern in economically developing nations of the world. Globally, four major genotypes of HEV have been documented. Hepatitis E has been suggested to be zoonotic owing to the increase of evidence through various studies. Thus far, this paper reports on prevalence of hepatitis E virus among swine herd in selected communal and commercial farms in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. A total of 160 faecal samples were collected from swine herds in Amathole and Chris Hani District Municipalities of Eastern Cape Province for the presence of HEV. Of the 160 faecal samples screened, only seven were positive (4.4%) for HEV. The nucleotide sequences analyses revealed the isolates as sharing 82% to 99% identities with other strains (KX896664, KX896665, KX896666, KX896667, KX896668, KX896669, and KX896670) from different regions of the world. We conclude that HEV is present among swine in the Eastern Cape Province, albeit in low incidence, and this does have public health implications. There is a need for maintenance of high hygienic standards in order to prevent human infections through swine faecal materials and appropriate cooking of pork is highly advised.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Olusesan Adeyemi Adelabu
- SAMRC Microbial Water Quality Monitoring Centre, University of Fort Hare, Private Bag X1314, Alice, Eastern Cape Province 5700, South Africa
- Applied and Environmental Microbiology Research Group (AEMREG), Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Fort Hare, Private Bag X1314, Alice, Eastern Cape Province 5700, South Africa
| | - Benson Chuks Iweriebor
- SAMRC Microbial Water Quality Monitoring Centre, University of Fort Hare, Private Bag X1314, Alice, Eastern Cape Province 5700, South Africa
- Applied and Environmental Microbiology Research Group (AEMREG), Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Fort Hare, Private Bag X1314, Alice, Eastern Cape Province 5700, South Africa
| | - U. U. Nwodo
- SAMRC Microbial Water Quality Monitoring Centre, University of Fort Hare, Private Bag X1314, Alice, Eastern Cape Province 5700, South Africa
- Applied and Environmental Microbiology Research Group (AEMREG), Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Fort Hare, Private Bag X1314, Alice, Eastern Cape Province 5700, South Africa
| | - Larry Chikwelu Obi
- Academic and Research Division, University of Fort Hare, Private Bag X1314, Alice, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
| | - Anthony Ifeanyi Okoh
- SAMRC Microbial Water Quality Monitoring Centre, University of Fort Hare, Private Bag X1314, Alice, Eastern Cape Province 5700, South Africa
- Applied and Environmental Microbiology Research Group (AEMREG), Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Fort Hare, Private Bag X1314, Alice, Eastern Cape Province 5700, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Adlhoch C, Avellon A, Baylis SA, Ciccaglione AR, Couturier E, de Sousa R, Epštein J, Ethelberg S, Faber M, Fehér Á, Ijaz S, Lange H, Manďáková Z, Mellou K, Mozalevskis A, Rimhanen-Finne R, Rizzi V, Said B, Sundqvist L, Thornton L, Tosti ME, van Pelt W, Aspinall E, Domanovic D, Severi E, Takkinen J, Dalton HR. Hepatitis E virus: Assessment of the epidemiological situation in humans in Europe, 2014/15. J Clin Virol 2016; 82:9-16. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcv.2016.06.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 137] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2016] [Accepted: 06/19/2016] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
|
34
|
Park WJ, Park BJ, Ahn HS, Lee JB, Park SY, Song CS, Lee SW, Yoo HS, Choi IS. Hepatitis E virus as an emerging zoonotic pathogen. J Vet Sci 2016; 17:1-11. [PMID: 27051334 PMCID: PMC4808633 DOI: 10.4142/jvs.2016.17.1.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2015] [Revised: 07/27/2015] [Accepted: 08/22/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E outbreaks are a serious public health concern in developing countries. The disease causes acute infections, primarily in young adults. The mortality rate is approximately 2%; however, it can exceed 20% in pregnant women in some regions in India. The causative agent, hepatitis E virus (HEV), has been isolated from several animal species, including pigs. HEV genotypes 3 and 4 have been isolated from both humans and animals, and are recognized as zoonotic pathogens. Seroprevalence studies in animals and humans indirectly suggest that HEV infections occur worldwide. The virus is primarily transmitted to humans via undercooked animal meats in developed countries. Moreover, transfusion- and transplantation-mediated HEV infections have recently been reported. This review summarizes the general characteristics of hepatitis E, HEV infection status in animals and humans, the zoonotic transmission modes of HEV, and HEV vaccine development status.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Woo-Jung Park
- Department of Infectious Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Korea
| | - Byung-Joo Park
- Department of Infectious Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Korea
| | - Hee-Seop Ahn
- Department of Infectious Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Korea
| | - Joong-Bok Lee
- Department of Infectious Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Korea
| | - Seung-Yong Park
- Department of Infectious Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Korea
| | - Chang-Seon Song
- Department of Infectious Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Korea
| | - Sang-Won Lee
- Department of Infectious Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Korea
| | - Han-Sang Yoo
- Department of Infectious Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
| | - In-Soo Choi
- Department of Infectious Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Žele D, Barry AF, Hakze-van der Honing RW, Vengušt G, van der Poel WHM. Prevalence of Anti-Hepatitis E Virus Antibodies and First Detection of Hepatitis E Virus in Wild Boar in Slovenia. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2016; 16:71-4. [PMID: 26757050 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2015.1819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E is an emerging zoonotic disease caused by hepatitis E virus (HEV). In this study, we investigated HEV presence in a wild boar (Sus scrofa) population of Slovenia. A total of 288 wild boar serum samples were collected throughout the country, and HEV infection was investigated by serology, using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and by HEV RNA detection using a real-time PCR assay. Antibodies against HEV were detected in 30.2% (87/288) of animals tested, whereas HEV RNA was detected in only one sample. This is the first evidence of HEV presence in the wild boar population in Slovenia, and these results suggest that these animals are part of the HEV epidemiological cycle in the country.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Diana Žele
- 1 Institute for Breeding and Health Care of Wild Animals, Fishes and Bees, Veterinary Faculty University of Ljubljana , Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Aline F Barry
- 2 Central Veterinary Institute of Wageningen University and Research Centre , Lelystad, the Netherlands
| | | | - Gorazd Vengušt
- 1 Institute for Breeding and Health Care of Wild Animals, Fishes and Bees, Veterinary Faculty University of Ljubljana , Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Wim H M van der Poel
- 2 Central Veterinary Institute of Wageningen University and Research Centre , Lelystad, the Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Ivanova A, Tefanova V, Reshetnjak I, Kuznetsova T, Geller J, Lundkvist Å, Janson M, Neare K, Velström K, Jokelainen P, Lassen B, Hütt P, Saar T, Viltrop A, Golovljova I. Hepatitis E Virus in Domestic Pigs, Wild Boars, Pig Farm Workers, and Hunters in Estonia. FOOD AND ENVIRONMENTAL VIROLOGY 2015; 7:403-12. [PMID: 26141050 DOI: 10.1007/s12560-015-9210-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2015] [Accepted: 06/27/2015] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
While hepatitis E is a growing health concern in Europe, epidemiological data on hepatitis E virus (HEV) in Estonia are scarce. Along with imported HEV infections, autochthonous cases are reported from European countries. Both domestic and wild animals can be a source of human cases of this zoonosis. Here, we investigated the presence of anti-HEV antibodies and HEV RNA in domestic pigs and wild boars, as well as in pig farm workers and hunters in Estonia. Anti-HEV antibodies were detected in 234/380 (61.6%) of sera from domestic pigs and in all investigated herds, and in 81/471 (17.2%) of meat juice samples from wild boars. HEV RNA was detected by real-time PCR in 103/449 (22.9%) of fecal samples from younger domestic pigs and 13/81 (16.0%) of anti-HEV-positive wild boar samples. Analysis of sera from 67 pig farm workers and 144 hunters revealed the presence of HEV-specific IgG in 13.4 and 4.2% of the samples, respectively. No HEV RNA was detected in the human serum samples. Phylogenetic analyses of HEV sequences from domestic pigs and wild boars, based on a 245 bp fragment from the open reading frame 2 showed that all of them belonged to genotype 3. The present study demonstrates the presence of HEV in Estonian domestic pig and wild boar populations, as well as in humans who have direct regular contact with these animals. Our results suggest that HEV infections are present in Estonia and require attention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Ivanova
- Department of Virology, National Institute for Health Development, Tallinn, Estonia.
| | - Valentina Tefanova
- Department of Virology, National Institute for Health Development, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Irina Reshetnjak
- Department of Virology, National Institute for Health Development, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Tatiana Kuznetsova
- Department of Virology, National Institute for Health Development, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Julia Geller
- Department of Virology, National Institute for Health Development, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Åke Lundkvist
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Zoonosis Science Center (ZSC), Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Marilin Janson
- Department of Basic Veterinary Sciences and Population Medicine, Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Kädi Neare
- Department of Basic Veterinary Sciences and Population Medicine, Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Kaisa Velström
- Department of Basic Veterinary Sciences and Population Medicine, Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Pikka Jokelainen
- Department of Basic Veterinary Sciences and Population Medicine, Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu, Estonia
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Brian Lassen
- Department of Basic Veterinary Sciences and Population Medicine, Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Pirje Hütt
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Tiiu Saar
- Department of Basic Veterinary Sciences and Population Medicine, Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Arvo Viltrop
- Department of Basic Veterinary Sciences and Population Medicine, Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Irina Golovljova
- Department of Virology, National Institute for Health Development, Tallinn, Estonia
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Zoonosis Science Center (ZSC), Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Thiry D, Mauroy A, Saegerman C, Licoppe A, Fett T, Thomas I, Brochier B, Thiry E, Linden A. Belgian Wildlife as Potential Zoonotic Reservoir of Hepatitis E Virus. Transbound Emerg Dis 2015; 64:764-773. [PMID: 26518619 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.12435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis E is an acute human liver disease in healthy individuals but may become chronic in immunocompromised patients. It is caused by the hepatitis E virus (HEV) and can have a zoonotic origin, particularly in high-income countries. In this study, 383 sera from wild boars were selected for serology; for virological analyses, 69 sera and 61 livers from young wild boars were used. A total of 189 and 235 sera of, respectively, red deer and roe deer were collected for serological analysis. For virological analyses, 84 and 68 sera and 29 and 27 livers from, respectively, red and roe deer were sampled. An apparent seroprevalence of 34% (95% CI 29.71-39.46) was found in wild boars, of 1% (95% CI 0-2.4) in red deer and 3% (95% CI 0.8-4.2) in roe deer. To assess the ELISA screening prevalence, Western blot (WB) analyses were carried out, a receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was performed and different scenarios with varying ELISA specificities relative to WB were analysed. Seroprevalence remained high whatever the scenario in the wild boar population. In wild boar, 4 of 69 sera and 4 of 61 livers were detected as positive for HEV RNA. All sequences obtained from sera belonged to genotype HEV-3. HEV RNA, belonging to genotype HEV-3, was detected in one of 29 red deer livers. Wild boar can be considered as a host reservoir of the virus in Belgium. However, in contrast to the epidemiological role played by them in other countries, the low prevalence in deer makes these species an unlikely reservoir. This evidence needs further investigation to determine in which situation deer can serve as reservoir. These results also raise the question of the dynamics of HEV infection between wild fauna, domestic pigs and humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- D Thiry
- Veterinary Virology and Animal Viral Diseases, Department of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Fundamental and Applied Research for Animal Health Centre, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - A Mauroy
- Veterinary Virology and Animal Viral Diseases, Department of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Fundamental and Applied Research for Animal Health Centre, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - C Saegerman
- Research Unit of Epidemiology and Risk Analysis Applied to Veterinary Science (UREAR-ULg), Department of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, FARAH, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - A Licoppe
- Natural and Agricultural Environmental Studies Department, DEMNA, Service Public de Wallonie, Gembloux, Belgium
| | - T Fett
- Wildlife Health and Pathology, Department of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, FARAH, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - I Thomas
- Virology, Operational Directorate Communicable and Infectious Diseases, Scientific Institute of Public Health, Brussels, Belgium
| | - B Brochier
- Virology, Operational Directorate Communicable and Infectious Diseases, Scientific Institute of Public Health, Brussels, Belgium
| | - E Thiry
- Veterinary Virology and Animal Viral Diseases, Department of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Fundamental and Applied Research for Animal Health Centre, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - A Linden
- Wildlife Health and Pathology, Department of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, FARAH, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Lapa D, Capobianchi MR, Garbuglia AR. Epidemiology of Hepatitis E Virus in European Countries. Int J Mol Sci 2015; 16:25711-43. [PMID: 26516843 PMCID: PMC4632823 DOI: 10.3390/ijms161025711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2015] [Revised: 09/12/2015] [Accepted: 10/16/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the last decade the seroprevalence of immunoglobulin (IgG) anti hepatitis E virus (HEV) has been increasing in European countries and shows significant variability among different geographical areas. In this review, we describe the serological data concerning the general population and risk groups in different European countries. Anti-HEV antibody prevalence ranged from 1.3% (blood donors in Italy) to 52% (blood donors in France). Various studies performed on risk groups in Denmark, Moldova and Sweden revealed that swine farmers have a high seroprevalence of HEV IgG (range 13%-51.1%), confirming that pigs represent an important risk factor in HEV infection in humans. Subtypes 3e,f are the main genotypes detected in the European population. Sporadic cases of autochthonous genotype 4 have been described in Spain, France, and Italy. Although most HEV infections are subclinical, in immune-suppressed and transplant patients they could provoke chronic infection. Fulminant hepatitis has rarely been observed and it was related to genotype 3. Interferon and ribavirin treatment was seen to represent the most promising therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Lapa
- Laboratory of Virology, "Lazzaro Spallanzani" National Institute for Infectious Diseases, Via Portuense 292, Rome 00149, Italy.
| | - Maria Rosaria Capobianchi
- Laboratory of Virology, "Lazzaro Spallanzani" National Institute for Infectious Diseases, Via Portuense 292, Rome 00149, Italy.
| | - Anna Rosa Garbuglia
- Laboratory of Virology, "Lazzaro Spallanzani" National Institute for Infectious Diseases, Via Portuense 292, Rome 00149, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Serracca L, Battistini R, Rossini I, Mignone W, Peletto S, Boin C, Pistone G, Ercolini R, Ercolini C. Molecular Investigation on the Presence of Hepatitis E Virus (HEV) in Wild Game in North-Western Italy. FOOD AND ENVIRONMENTAL VIROLOGY 2015; 7:206-12. [PMID: 26006251 DOI: 10.1007/s12560-015-9201-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2015] [Accepted: 05/16/2015] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Meat products from HEV-infected reservoir animal species are capable of transmitting HEV to humans and represent a public health concern. Human HEV cases have been linked to the consumption of raw or undercooked pig liver sausages, pork, and game meats, such as wild boars and deer worldwide. Direct exposure to swine or wild game species might also represent a source of HEV transmission especially for veterinarians, hunters, or butchers. A limited amount of data is available on HEV prevalence in wild boars in Italy and no data are available for other wild game species intended for human consumption. In this study, the circulation of HEV in four different animal species hunted in north-western Italy was evaluated to gain insight into the infection levels and the genetic diversity of the virus in such animal populations. Liver samples of 372 wild boars, 30 roe deer, 47 European hares and 38 coypus were analyzed for HEV RNA by real-time RT-PCR; positive samples were then sequenced and submitted to phylogenetic analysis. HEV RNA was detected in the livers of 7/372 (1.9%) wild boars tested, while no sample was positive for roe deer, European hare, and coypu. Phylogenetic analysis showed that wild boar HEV sequences belonged to HEV subtypes 3e, 3c, and 3f. Our results indicate that HEV is circulating only in wild boar among the considered game species in north-western Italy and suggest a potential zoonotic risk related to handling and/or consumption of raw or undercooked meat and products made of the liver from this species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Serracca
- IZSPLVA - Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d'Aosta - Sezione La Spezia, Via degli Stagnoni 96, 19100, La Spezia, Italy,
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
40
|
Prpić J, Černi S, Škorić D, Keros T, Brnić D, Cvetnić Ž, Jemeršić L. Distribution and Molecular Characterization of Hepatitis E virus in Domestic Animals and Wildlife in Croatia. FOOD AND ENVIRONMENTAL VIROLOGY 2015; 7:195-205. [PMID: 25820413 DOI: 10.1007/s12560-015-9193-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2014] [Accepted: 03/21/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis E is becoming a growing health concern in European countries as an increase of sporadic human cases of unknown origin has been recorded lately. Its causative agent, Hepatitis E virus (HEV), is known to have zoonotic potential and thus the role of domestic and wild animals in the chain of viral spread should be considered when investigating risk factors and the epidemiology of the disease. A comprehensive survey based on viral RNA detection was carried out in Croatia including blood, spleen and liver samples originating from 1816 different domestic and wild animals and digestive gland samples from 538 molluscs. A high HEV prevalence was detected in domestic pigs (24.5%) and wild boars (12.3%), whereas cattle, molluscs, ruminant and carnivore wildlife samples tested negative. Molecular characterization of both ORF1 and ORF2 genomic regions confirmed the phylogenetic clustering of the obtained sequences into genotype 3, previously reported in Europe. Furthermore, our results proved the presence of identical sequence variants in different samples, regardless of their origin, age or habitat of the host, suggesting transmission events between domestic swine, as well as between domestic swine and wild boars in the country. Moreover, a close genetic relationship of Croatian animal strains and known human HEV strains from GenBank opens the question of possible cross-species HEV transmission in Croatia, especially in the areas with an intensive swine production.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jelena Prpić
- Department of Virology, Croatian Veterinary Institute, Savska cesta 143, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
41
|
|
42
|
Sayed IM, Vercauteren K, Abdelwahab SF, Meuleman P. The emergence of hepatitis E virus in Europe. Future Virol 2015. [DOI: 10.2217/fvl.15.29] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infections appear to be an emerging problem in Europe. Infections are mainly caused by viruses of genotype 3. Pigs and wild boar are the main reservoirs of HEV in Europe and most autochthonous infections are probably caused by the consumption of uncooked or undercooked infected meat. Nevertheless, transfusion-associated transmission has been described in different European countries but the efficiency of this route of transmission need to be further investigated. Most acute infections are asymptomatic or the induced symptoms are rather nonspecific. Although people that are otherwise completely healthy can spontaneously clear an HEV infection, people with underlying liver disease and/or suffering from immune deficiencies may require treatment to avoid chronicity and exacerbation of liver disease. In this review, we give an epidemiological overview of HEV in Europe and the potential complications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ibrahim M Sayed
- Center for Vaccinology, Ghent University, Ghent University Hospital, B-9000 Gent, Belgium
- Microbiology & Immunology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Assuit University, Assuit 71515, Egypt
| | - Koen Vercauteren
- Center for Vaccinology, Ghent University, Ghent University Hospital, B-9000 Gent, Belgium
| | - Sayed F Abdelwahab
- Microbiology and Immunology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Minia University, Minia 61511, Egypt
| | - Philip Meuleman
- Center for Vaccinology, Ghent University, Ghent University Hospital, B-9000 Gent, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Pavoni E, Barbieri I, Bertasi B, Lombardi G, Giangrosso G, Cordioli P, Losio MN. Detection and Molecular Characterisation of Swine Hepatitis E Virus in Brescia Province, Italy. Ital J Food Saf 2015; 4:4587. [PMID: 27800394 PMCID: PMC5076652 DOI: 10.4081/ijfs.2015.4587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2014] [Revised: 12/19/2014] [Accepted: 12/20/2014] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is an important public health concern in many developing countries and it occurs in sporadic forms in industrialized areas. With the discovery of swine HEV in pigs, which is genetically closely related to human HEV, hepatitis E is considered to be a zoonotic disease. To investigate the circulation of HEV within a distinct area of Lombardy region (Northern Italy), 17 pig farms were subjected to monitoring study by collection of fresh stool samples each represented by ground-pooled specimens. In particular, three distinct types of breeding farms were focused, represented by farrow to weaning, farrow to finish and fattening farms, respectively. Epidemiological data confirm that in Europe the seroprevalence in pigs, more than 9 month of age, ranges from 51.4 to 75%, while in 3-9 months fatteners is about 38%. In France and Italy, the positivity among farms is respectively 30 and 97.4% and the seroprevalence in Italy is 50.2%. Since HEV viremia was typically observed in the early period of life in swine, faeces were collected in boxes containing weaning pigs. For the study, 183 stool samples were collected and amplifications were performed with universal primers specific for the ORF2 region of genome. Twentyeight samples resulted positive to HEV RNA and genotyping demonstrated that they were closely related to HEV strains belonging to genotype 3 and circulating in Europe. Comparison with reference strains from GenBank excluded their similarity to genotype 1, 2 or 4 confirming that genotype 3 strains are circulating in Europe. Since it was demonstrated that swine act as a reservoir for HEV, and since many strains into HEV genotype 3 share a strong molecular similarity to human HEV, it was important to detect the presence of HEV in a restricted area with a very high density of pigs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Enrico Pavoni
- Veterinary Public Health Institute of Lombardy and Emilia-Romagna, Brescia, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
44
|
Montagnaro S, De Martinis C, Sasso S, Ciarcia R, Damiano S, Auletta L, Iovane V, Zottola T, Pagnini U. Viral and Antibody Prevalence of Hepatitis E in European Wild Boars (Sus scrofa) and Hunters at Zoonotic Risk in the Latium Region. J Comp Pathol 2015; 153:1-8. [PMID: 26025105 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcpa.2015.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2015] [Revised: 04/09/2015] [Accepted: 04/14/2015] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a member of the genus Hepevirus within the family Hepeviridae. Hepatitis E is recognized as a zoonosis, and swine and wild boars (Sus scrofa) are known reservoirs of HEV infection. The aim of this study was to investigate the presence of HEV in wild boars and hunters exposed to infection in central Italy (Latium region). During the hunting season, blood samples were collected from 228 wild boars and 20 hunters. The seroprevalence of HEV infection was determined using a commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, previously validated for use in man, pigs and wild boars. The estimated HEV seroprevalence in wild boars and in hunters was 40.7% (93/228; 95% confidence interval [CI] 34.4-47.1%) and 25% (5/20; 95% CI 6.1-43.9%), respectively. Liver samples were collected from the boars and HEV RNA was detected by nested reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. Fifty-five of 164 tested wild boar liver samples (33.5%; 95% CI 26.2-40.7%) and three of 20 (15.0%; 95% CI 1.3-28.7%) tested human serum samples were positive for HEV RNA. Phylogenetic analysis of the nucleotide sequences obtained from PCR products indicated that the HEV strains present in wild boars and the human population all belonged to genotype 3, supporting the zoonotic role of wild boars in the spread of HEV infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S Montagnaro
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples 'Federico II', Via Delpino 1, Naples, Italy.
| | - C De Martinis
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples 'Federico II', Via Delpino 1, Naples, Italy
| | - S Sasso
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples 'Federico II', Via Delpino 1, Naples, Italy
| | - R Ciarcia
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples 'Federico II', Via Delpino 1, Naples, Italy
| | - S Damiano
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples 'Federico II', Via Delpino 1, Naples, Italy
| | - L Auletta
- Istituto di Ricerca Diagnostica e Nucleare, IRCCS-SDN, Via E. Gianturco 113, Naples, Italy
| | - V Iovane
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples 'Federico II', Via Delpino 1, Naples, Italy
| | - T Zottola
- Experimental Zooprophylactic Institute of Lazio e Toscana Regions, Diagnostic Section of Latina, Italy
| | - U Pagnini
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples 'Federico II', Via Delpino 1, Naples, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Vina-Rodriguez A, Schlosser J, Becher D, Kaden V, Groschup MH, Eiden M. Hepatitis E virus genotype 3 diversity: phylogenetic analysis and presence of subtype 3b in wild boar in Europe. Viruses 2015; 7:2704-26. [PMID: 26008708 PMCID: PMC4452927 DOI: 10.3390/v7052704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2015] [Revised: 05/13/2015] [Accepted: 05/20/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
An increasing number of indigenous cases of hepatitis E caused by genotype 3 viruses (HEV-3) have been diagnosed all around the word, particularly in industrialized countries. Hepatitis E is a zoonotic disease and accumulating evidence indicates that domestic pigs and wild boars are the main reservoirs of HEV-3. A detailed analysis of HEV-3 subtypes could help to determine the interplay of human activity, the role of animals as reservoirs and cross species transmission. Although complete genome sequences are most appropriate for HEV subtype determination, in most cases only partial genomic sequences are available. We therefore carried out a subtype classification analysis, which uses regions from all three open reading frames of the genome. Using this approach, more than 1000 published HEV-3 isolates were subtyped. Newly recovered HEV partial sequences from hunted German wild boars were also included in this study. These sequences were assigned to genotype 3 and clustered within subtype 3a, 3i and, unexpectedly, one of them within the subtype 3b, a first non-human report of this subtype in Europe.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ariel Vina-Rodriguez
- Institute for Novel and Emerging Infectious Diseases, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Südufer 10, 17493 Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany.
| | - Josephine Schlosser
- Institute for Novel and Emerging Infectious Diseases, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Südufer 10, 17493 Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany.
| | - Dietmar Becher
- Micromun GmbH, Greifswald, Walther-Rathenau-Straße 49A, 17489 Greifswald, Germany.
| | - Volker Kaden
- Institute of Infectology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Südufer 10, 17493 Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany.
| | - Martin H Groschup
- Institute for Novel and Emerging Infectious Diseases, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Südufer 10, 17493 Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany.
| | - Martin Eiden
- Institute for Novel and Emerging Infectious Diseases, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Südufer 10, 17493 Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Scotto G, Grisorio B, Filippini P, Ferrara S, Massa S, Bulla F, Martini S, Filippini A, Tartaglia A, Lo Muzio L, Fazio V. Hepatitis E virus co-infection in HIV-infected patients in Foggia and Naples in southern Italy. Infect Dis (Lond) 2015; 47:707-13. [PMID: 25994453 DOI: 10.3109/23744235.2015.1049658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection represents an emerging infection in developed countries and is thought to be a zoonotic infection. It has recently been described as a new causative agent of acute and chronic hepatitis in immunosuppressed subjects, including HIV-infected patients. The aim of this study was to assess the sero-virological prevalence of HEV in HIV patients and in the general population as control group. METHODS A prospective and observational cohort study was carried out in two hospitals in southern Italy. The seroprevalence of HEV was determined in a cohort of 959 subjects, 509 (53%) of whom were HIV-positive patients and 450 were from the general population. Serum samples were tested for anti-HEV antibodies; repeatedly positive results were confirmed by a Western blot assay. In positive patients HEV RNA and genotypes were also determined. RESULTS A total of 46 (4.8%) of the 959 serum samples examined were reactive to anti-HEV Ig and confirmed by Western blotting. The prevalence of HEV antibodies (IgG and/or IgM) was 2.7% in the control group and 6.7% in HIV-infected patients. Anti-HEV IgM was found in 6/46 (13.0%) of the anti-HEV Ig-positive serum samples, in 5/34 HIV patients and in 1/12 of the general population. No HIV-infected patient presented chronic hepatitis with HEV infection alone. CONCLUSIONS This study indicates a higher circulation of HEV in HIV-infected patients, whereas a low prevalence of HEV antibodies in the general Italian population was shown. Chronic hepatitis with HEV alone was absent, while it was present in subjects with HIV-HEV, co-infected with hepatitis B virus (HBV) and/or hepatitis C virus (HCV).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gaetano Scotto
- From the 1 Chair of Microbiology and Clinical Microbiology, University of Foggia , Foggia , Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
47
|
Thiry D, Mauroy A, Pavio N, Purdy MA, Rose N, Thiry E, de Oliveira-Filho EF. Hepatitis E Virus and Related Viruses in Animals. Transbound Emerg Dis 2015; 64:37-52. [PMID: 25919649 PMCID: PMC7169709 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.12351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2014] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis E is an acute human liver disease in healthy individuals which may eventually become chronic. It is caused by the hepatitis E virus (HEV) and can have a zoonotic origin. Nearly 57,000 people die yearly from hepatitis E-related conditions. The disease is endemic in both developing and developed countries with distinct epidemiologic profiles. In developing countries, the disease is associated with inadequate water treatment, while in developed countries, transmission is associated with animal contact and the ingestion of raw or uncooked meat, especially liver. All human HEV are grouped into at least four genotypes, while HEV or HEV-related viruses have been identified in an increasing number of domestic and wild animal species. Despite a high genetic diversity, only one single HEV serotype has been described to date for HEV genotypes 1-4. The discovery of new HEV or HEV-related viruses leads to a continuing increase in the number of genotypes. In addition, the genome organization of all these viruses is variable with overlapping open reading frames (ORF) and differences in the location of ORF3. In spite of the role of some domestic and wild animals as reservoir, the origin of HEV and HEV-related viruses in humans and animals is still unclear. This review discusses aspects of the detection, molecular virology, zoonotic transmission and origin of HEV and HEV-related viruses in the context of 'One Health' and establishes a link between the previous and the new taxonomy of this growing virus family.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- D Thiry
- Veterinary Virology and Animal Viral Diseases, Department of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, FARAH, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - A Mauroy
- Veterinary Virology and Animal Viral Diseases, Department of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, FARAH, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - N Pavio
- UMR 1161 Virology, ANSES, Animal Health Laboratory, Maisons-Alfort, France.,UMR 1161 Virology, INRA, Maisons-Alfort, France.,UMR 1161 Virology, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - M A Purdy
- National Center for HIV/Hepatitis/STD/TB Prevention, Division of Viral Hepatitis, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - N Rose
- ANSES Laboratory of Ploufragan/Plouzané, Unit of Pig Epidemiology and Welfare, Ploufragan, France
| | - E Thiry
- Veterinary Virology and Animal Viral Diseases, Department of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, FARAH, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - E F de Oliveira-Filho
- Veterinary Virology and Animal Viral Diseases, Department of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, FARAH, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Černi S, Prpić J, Jemeršić L, Škorić D. The application of single strand conformation polymorphism (SSCP) analysis in determining Hepatitis E virus intra-host diversity. J Virol Methods 2015; 221:46-50. [PMID: 25920567 DOI: 10.1016/j.jviromet.2015.04.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2014] [Revised: 04/14/2015] [Accepted: 04/16/2015] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Genetic heterogeneity of RNA populations influences virus pathogenesis, epidemiology and evolution. Therefore, accurate information regarding virus genetic structure is highly important for both diagnostic and scientific purposes. For the Hepatitis E virus (HEV), the causal agent of hepatitis in humans, the intra-host population structure has been poorly investigated, mainly using the less sensitive RFLP-based approach. The objective of this study was to assess the suitability and the accuracy of single strand conformation polymorphism (SSCP) analysis, a well-established tool in genetic variation research, for the characterization of HEV quasispecies. The analysis was conducted on 50 clones of five swine isolates and 30 clones of three human HEV isolates. To identify and quantify the sequence variants present in each HEV isolate, 348bp long fragments of the amplified conserved ORF2 region were separated by cloning. Ten clones per isolate were subjected to SSCP and sequenced in a parallel experiment. The results show a high correlation of SSCP haplotype profiling with the sequencing results, confirming the sensitivity and reliability of this simple, rapid and low cost approach in the characterization of HEV quasispecies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S Černi
- University of Zagreb, Faculty of Science, Department of Biology, Marulićev trg 9A, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - J Prpić
- Croatian Veterinary Institute, Department of Virology, Savska cesta 143, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - L Jemeršić
- Croatian Veterinary Institute, Department of Virology, Savska cesta 143, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - D Škorić
- University of Zagreb, Faculty of Science, Department of Biology, Marulićev trg 9A, Zagreb, Croatia.
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Lin J, Karlsson M, Olofson AS, Belák S, Malmsten J, Dalin AM, Widén F, Norder H. High prevalence of hepatitis e virus in Swedish moose--a phylogenetic characterization and comparison of the virus from different regions. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0122102. [PMID: 25906163 PMCID: PMC4408071 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0122102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2014] [Accepted: 02/17/2015] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infects a range of species, including humans, pigs, wild boars and deer. Zoonotic transmission may contribute to the high HEV seroprevalence in the human population of many countries. A novel divergent HEV from moose (Alces alces) in Sweden was recently identified by partial genome sequencing. Since only one strain was found, its classification within the HEV family, prevalence in moose and zoonotic potential was unclear. We therefore investigated samples from 231 moose in seven Swedish counties for HEV, and sequenced a near complete moose HEV genome. Phylogenetic analysis to classify this virus within the family Hepeviridae and to explore potential host specific determinants was performed. METHODS AND FINDINGS The HEV prevalence of moose was determined by PCR (marker for active infection) and serological assays (marker of past infection) of sera and 51 fecal samples from 231 Swedish moose. Markers of active and past infection were found in 67 (29%) animals, while 34 (15%) were positive for HEV RNA, 43 (19%) were seropositive for anti-HEV antibodies, and 10 (4%) had both markers. The number of young individuals positive for HEV RNA was larger than for older individuals, and the number of anti-HEV antibody positive individuals increased with age. The high throughput sequenced moose HEV genome was 35-60% identical to existing HEVs. Partial ORF1 sequences from 13 moose strains showed high similarity among them, forming a distinct monophyletic clade with a common ancestor to HEV genotype 1-6 group, which includes members known for zoonotic transmission. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates a high frequency of HEV in moose in Sweden, with markers of current and past infection demonstrated in 30% of the animals. Moose is thus an important animal reservoir of HEV. The phylogenetic relationship demonstrated that the moose HEV belonged to the genotype 1-6 group, which includes strains that also infect humans, and therefore may signify a potential for zoonotic transmission of this HEV.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jay Lin
- Department of Virology, Immunobiology and Parasitology (VIP), National Veterinary Institute (SVA), Uppsala, Sweden
- Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), Department of Biomedical Science and Veterinary Public Health, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Marie Karlsson
- Department of Infectious Diseases/Section of Clinical Virology, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Ann-Sophie Olofson
- Department of Virology, Immunobiology and Parasitology (VIP), National Veterinary Institute (SVA), Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Sándor Belák
- Department of Virology, Immunobiology and Parasitology (VIP), National Veterinary Institute (SVA), Uppsala, Sweden
- Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), Department of Biomedical Science and Veterinary Public Health, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Jonas Malmsten
- Department of Pathology and Wildlife Diseases, National Veterinary Institute (SVA), Uppsala, Sweden
- Division of Reproduction, Department of Clinical Sciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Anne-Marie Dalin
- Division of Reproduction, Department of Clinical Sciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Frederik Widén
- Department of Virology, Immunobiology and Parasitology (VIP), National Veterinary Institute (SVA), Uppsala, Sweden
- Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), Department of Biomedical Science and Veterinary Public Health, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Heléne Norder
- Department of Infectious Diseases/Section of Clinical Virology, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
First report of hepatitis E virus infection in sika deer in China. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2015; 2015:502846. [PMID: 25949999 PMCID: PMC4407398 DOI: 10.1155/2015/502846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2015] [Revised: 03/25/2015] [Accepted: 03/25/2015] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV), a single stranded RNA, nonenveloped virus, belongs to the genus Hepevirus, in the family of Hepeviridae. In this study, 46 (5.43%) out of the 847 serum samples from sika deer (Cervus nippon) were detected as seropositive with hepatitis E virus (HEV) by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). These samples were collected from Inner Mongolia and Jilin and Heilongjiang provinces in China, between October 2012 and October 2013. Seroprevalence of HEV infection in male and female deer was 4.82% and 6.52%, respectively. HEV seroprevalence in sika deer from different geographical locations varied from 3.13% to 6.73%. There was no significant difference in HEV seroprevalence between sika deer collected in autumn (5.65%) and winter (4.85%). This is the first report of HEV seroprevalence in sika deer in China, which will provide foundation information for estimating the effectiveness of future measures to control HEV infection in sika deer in China and assessing the potential risk of humans infected with HEV after consumption of undercooked or raw meat from infected sika deer.
Collapse
|