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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.
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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.)
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2
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Monini M, Di Bartolo I, De Sabato L, Ianiro G, Agostinelli F, Ostanello F. Hepatitis E Virus (HEV) in Heavy Pigs in Slaughterhouses of Northern Italy: Investigation of Seroprevalence, Viraemia, and Faecal Shedding. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2942. [PMID: 37760342 PMCID: PMC10525452 DOI: 10.3390/ani13182942] [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: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is considered an emerging threat in Europe, owing to the increased number of human cases and the widespread presence of the virus in pigs at farms. Most cases in industrialized countries are caused by the zoonotic HEV-3 genotype. The main transmission route of HEV-3 in Europe is foodborne, through consumption of raw or undercooked liver pork and wild boar meat. Pigs become susceptible to HEV infection after the loss of maternal immunity, and the majority of adult pigs test positive for IgG anti-HEV antibodies. Nonetheless, HEV-infected pigs in terms of liver, faeces, and rarely blood are identified at slaughterhouses. The present study aimed to investigate the prevalence of HEV-positive batches of Italian heavy pigs at slaughterhouses, assessing the presence of animals still shedding HEV upon their arrival at the slaughterhouse by sampling faeces collected from the floor of the trucks used for their transport. The occurrence of viraemic animals and the seroprevalence of anti-HEV antibodies were also assessed. The results obtained indicated the presence of anti-HEV IgM (1.9%), and a high seroprevalence of anti-HEV total antibodies (IgG, IgM, IgA; 89.2%, n = 260). HEV RNA was not detected in either plasma or faecal samples. Nevertheless, seropositive animals were identified in all eight batches investigated, confirming the widespread exposure of pigs to HEV at both individual and farm levels. Future studies are needed to assess the factors associated with the risk of HEV presence on farms, with the aim to prevent virus introduction and spread within farms, thereby eliminating the risk at slaughterhouse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Monini
- Department of Food Safety, Nutrition and Veterinary Public Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena, 299, 00161 Rome, Italy; (M.M.); (L.D.S.); (G.I.); (F.A.)
| | - Ilaria Di Bartolo
- Department of Food Safety, Nutrition and Veterinary Public Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena, 299, 00161 Rome, Italy; (M.M.); (L.D.S.); (G.I.); (F.A.)
| | - Luca De Sabato
- Department of Food Safety, Nutrition and Veterinary Public Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena, 299, 00161 Rome, Italy; (M.M.); (L.D.S.); (G.I.); (F.A.)
| | - Giovanni Ianiro
- Department of Food Safety, Nutrition and Veterinary Public Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena, 299, 00161 Rome, Italy; (M.M.); (L.D.S.); (G.I.); (F.A.)
| | - Francesca Agostinelli
- Department of Food Safety, Nutrition and Veterinary Public Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena, 299, 00161 Rome, Italy; (M.M.); (L.D.S.); (G.I.); (F.A.)
| | - Fabio Ostanello
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra, 50, Ozzano dell’Emilia, 40064 Bologna, Italy;
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3
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Carella E, Oberto F, Romano A, Peletto S, Vitale N, Costa A, Caruso C, Chiavacci L, Acutis PL, Pite L, Masoero L. Molecular and serological investigation of Hepatitis E virus in pigs slaughtered in Northwestern Italy. BMC Vet Res 2023; 19:21. [PMID: 36698186 PMCID: PMC9875460 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-023-03578-4] [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: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis E Virus (HEV) is recently considered an emerging public health concern. HEV genotypes 1 and 2 are widely distributed and pathogenic only for humans. In contrast, HEV, genotypes 3 and 4 are observed in swine, deer, wild boars and rabbits and can also be transmitted to humans. The presence of HEV in the liver, muscle, faeces, blood, and bile was detected by real-time RT-PCR in 156 pigs belonging to twenty different farms, ranging from 1 to 8 months of age. The phylogenetic analysis was performed on the viral strain present in the positive biological matrix, with the lowest Ct. HEV-IgG and HEV-IgM in the sera were analysed by two different ELISA kits. RESULTS Twenty-one pigs, i.e., 13.46% of them (21/156, 95% CI: 8.53%-19.84%), tested positive for HEV in at least one biological matrix by real-time RT-PCR, while phylogenetic analysis revealed the presence of HEV subtypes 3f and 3c. Pig serums analysed by ELISA showed an overall prevalence of 26.92% (42/156, 95% CI: 20.14%-34.60%) for HEV-IgG, whereas the 28.95% (33/114, 95% CI: 20.84%-38.19%) of them tested negative resulted positive for the HEV-IgM. CONCLUSIONS The faeces are the biological matrix with the highest probability of detecting HEV. The best concordance value (Kappa Kohen index) and the highest positive correlation (Phi index) were observed for the correlation between bile and liver, even when the number of positive liver samples was lower than the positive bile samples. This finding may suggest that a higher probability of HEV occurs in the bile, when the virus is present in the liver, during the stages of infection. Finally, the presence of HEV in muscle was observed in 11 pigs, usually used for the preparation of some dishes, typical of the Italian tradition, based on raw or undercooked meat. Therefore, their consumption is a possible source of infection for final consumer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emanuele Carella
- grid.425427.20000 0004 1759 3180Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria E Valle d’ Aosta, Via Bologna 148, 10154 Turin, Italy
| | - Francesca Oberto
- grid.425427.20000 0004 1759 3180Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria E Valle d’ Aosta, Via Bologna 148, 10154 Turin, Italy
| | - Angelo Romano
- grid.425427.20000 0004 1759 3180Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria E Valle d’ Aosta, Via Bologna 148, 10154 Turin, Italy
| | - Simone Peletto
- grid.425427.20000 0004 1759 3180Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria E Valle d’ Aosta, Via Bologna 148, 10154 Turin, Italy
| | - Nicoletta Vitale
- grid.425427.20000 0004 1759 3180Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria E Valle d’ Aosta, Via Bologna 148, 10154 Turin, Italy
| | - Annalisa Costa
- grid.476863.80000 0004 1755 6398Azienda Sanitaria Locale CN2, Via Gerolamo Vida 10, 12051 Alba (CN), Italy
| | - Claudio Caruso
- Azienda Sanitaria Locale CN1, Via Pier Carlo Boggio 12, 12100 Cuneo, Italy
| | - Laura Chiavacci
- grid.425427.20000 0004 1759 3180Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria E Valle d’ Aosta, Via Bologna 148, 10154 Turin, Italy
| | - Pier Luigi Acutis
- grid.425427.20000 0004 1759 3180Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria E Valle d’ Aosta, Via Bologna 148, 10154 Turin, Italy
| | - Ledi Pite
- grid.425427.20000 0004 1759 3180Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria E Valle d’ Aosta, Via Bologna 148, 10154 Turin, Italy
| | - Loretta Masoero
- grid.425427.20000 0004 1759 3180Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria E Valle d’ Aosta, Via Bologna 148, 10154 Turin, Italy
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Ianiro G, Pavoni E, Aprea G, Romantini R, Alborali GL, D'Angelantonio D, Garofolo G, Scattolini S, De Sabato L, Magistrali CF, Burow E, Ostanello F, Smith RP, Di Bartolo I. Cross-sectional study of hepatitis E virus (HEV) circulation in Italian pig farms. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1136225. [PMID: 37143498 PMCID: PMC10151646 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1136225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Foodborne transmission is considered the main way of spreading zoonotic hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection in Europe. In recent years, the human cases of hepatitis E in subjects without history of travel in endemic areas have raised, suggesting that domestic HEV transmission is increasing. Pork products with or without liver, are often indicated as the source of many human foodborne HEV cases as well as small outbreaks. Pigs are recognized as the main reservoir of the zoonotic HEV-3 genotype, the most frequently detected in human cases in the EU. In the absence of a harmonized surveillance of HEV circulation, data on prevalence are heterogeneous but confirm a widespread circulation of HEV-3 in pig herds across EU. HEV-3 can pass through the food chain from farm to fork when infected animals are slaughtered. In Italy, several studies reported the circulation of HEV-3 in pig farms, but results are heterogeneous due to different methodologies applied. In the present study, we performed a survey over 51 pig herds belonging to three main types of farms: breeding, fattening and farrow-to-finish. HEV-RNA was analyzed by broad range Real-time RT-PCR on 20 samples for each farm, obtained by pooling together feces from 10 individuals. Overall, HEV RNA was confirmed on 150 fecal pooled samples out of 1,032 (14.5%). At least one positive pooled sample was detected from 18 farms out of 51 tested (35.3%). By lowering the number of infected pigs at primary production, the risk of HEV-3 entering into the food chain can be reduced. Hence, information on HEV circulation in herds is highly relevant for choosing preventive measures and deserves development of a monitoring program and further investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Ianiro
- Department of Food Safety, Nutrition and Veterinary Public Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Enrico Pavoni
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell'Emilia-Romagna “Bruno Ubertini”, Brescia, Italy
- *Correspondence: Enrico Pavoni
| | - Giuseppe Aprea
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell'Abruzzo e del Molise “Giuseppe Caporale”, Teramo, Italy
| | - Romina Romantini
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell'Abruzzo e del Molise “Giuseppe Caporale”, Teramo, Italy
| | - Giovanni Loris Alborali
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell'Emilia-Romagna “Bruno Ubertini”, Brescia, Italy
| | - Daniela D'Angelantonio
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell'Abruzzo e del Molise “Giuseppe Caporale”, Teramo, Italy
| | - Giuliano Garofolo
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell'Abruzzo e del Molise “Giuseppe Caporale”, Teramo, Italy
| | - Silvia Scattolini
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell'Abruzzo e del Molise “Giuseppe Caporale”, Teramo, Italy
| | - Luca De Sabato
- Department of Food Safety, Nutrition and Veterinary Public Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Elke Burow
- Department of Biological Safety, German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment, Berlin, Germany
| | - Fabio Ostanello
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Ozzano dell'Emilia, Italy
| | - Richard Piers Smith
- Department of Epidemiological Sciences, Animal and Plant Health Agency, Weybridge, United Kingdom
| | - Ilaria Di Bartolo
- Department of Food Safety, Nutrition and Veterinary Public Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
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Ahmad T, Jin H, Dhama K, Yatoo MI, Tiwari R, Bilal M, Dhawan M, Emran TB, Alestad JH, Alhani HM, BinKhalaf HK, Rabaan AA. Hepatitis E virus in pigs and the environment: An updated review of public health concerns. NARRA J 2022; 2:e78. [PMID: 38449702 PMCID: PMC10914032 DOI: 10.52225/narra.v2i2.78] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is an important public health problem and is responsible for both acute and chronic viral hepatitis. Public health implications of HEV are derived from its transmission route, either water-borne or food-borne, and its zoonotic potential. Not only in developing countries, but HEV cases are also found in a high number in developed countries. The spread of HEV to the environment might pollute surface waters, which could act as the source of infection for both humans and animals. Identification of the virus in animal products suggests the circulation of HEV within water and food chains. High seroprevalence and circulation of HEV in livestock, in particular pigs, as well as in environmental samples warrants further investigation into pig markets. HEV virulence in different environments and meat supply chains could shed light on the possible sources of infection in humans and the degree of occupational risk. The purpose of this review is to discuss HEV infections with an emphasis on livestock- and environment-related risk factors, and food-borne, water-borne, and zoonotic transmissions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tauseef Ahmad
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing,Chinas
| | - Hui Jin
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing,Chinas
| | - Kuldeep Dhama
- Division of Pathology, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Mohd. Iqbal Yatoo
- Sher-E-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir, Shalimar, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, Indias
| | - Ruchi Tiwari
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Immunology, College of Veterinary Sciences, Uttar Pradesh Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalaya Evam Go Anusandhan Sansthan (DUVASU), Mathura, India
| | - Muhammad Bilal
- School of Life Science and Food Engineering, Huaiyin Institute of Technology, Huaian, China
| | - Manish Dhawan
- Department of Microbiology, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, India
- The Trafford Group of Colleges, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Talha B. Emran
- Department of Pharmacy, BGC Trust University Bangladesh, Chittagong, Bangladesh
| | - Jeehan H. Alestad
- Immunology and Infectious Microbiology, Glasgow, United Kingdom
- Collage of medicine, Microbiology, Jabriya, Kuwait
- Kuwait Chair Madam in Antimicrobial Resistance Committee, Alternative Permanent Representative of Kuwait to the United Nation Agencies, Rome, Italys
| | - Hatem M. Alhani
- Department of Pediatric Infectious Disease, Maternity and Children Hospital, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Infection Control, Maternity and Children Hospital, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Infection Prevention and Control, Directorate of Ministry of Health, Eastern Region, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Habib K. BinKhalaf
- Department of Molecular Laboratory, King Fahad Hospital, Hofuf, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ali A. Rabaan
- Molecular Diagnostic Laboratory, Johns Hopkins Aramco Healthcare, Dhahran, Saudi Arabia
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Public Health and Nutrition, The University of Haripur, Haripur, Pakistan
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6
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The first evidence of zoonotic hepatitis E virus (HEV) exposure in domestic cats in Türkiye. Comp Immunol Microbiol Infect Dis 2022; 86:101820. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cimid.2022.101820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2022] [Revised: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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7
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Withenshaw SM, Grierson SS, Smith RP. Study of Animal Mixing and the Dynamics of Hepatitis E Virus Infection on a Farrow-to-Finish Pig Farm. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12030272. [PMID: 35158596 PMCID: PMC8833537 DOI: 10.3390/ani12030272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2021] [Revised: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
In Europe, swine are a livestock reservoir for Hepatitis E virus genotype 3 (HEV-3). Consumption of food containing HEV-3 can cause zoonotic human infection, though risk is reduced by heat treatment. Implementing controls that limit infection in slaughter pigs may further reduce foodborne transmission risk but knowledge of infection dynamics on commercial farms is limited. This study addressed this knowledge gap and in particular investigated the influence of group mixing. Faeces were collected from grower (n = 212) and fattener (n = 262) pigs on a farrow-to-finish farm on four occasions. HEV RNA was detected on all occasions, and prevalence was higher in growers (85.8%) than fatteners (26.0%; p < 0.001). HEV-positive samples were also collected from the wider farm environment (n = 67; 64.7% prevalence), indicating potential sources for HEV re-circulation within the herd. Timing of infection in a cohort was also investigated. HEV was absent from all piglet faeces (n = 98) and first detected at weaner stage (25.7% prevalence), but only in groups weaned earlier or comprising pigs from many different litters. Farrowing sow faeces (n = 75) were HEV-negative but antibodies were detected in blood from two sows. Results suggest that multiple factors influence HEV infection dynamics on pig farms, and potential foci for further study into practical control solutions are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan M. Withenshaw
- Department of Epidemiological Sciences, Animal and Plant Health Agency, Weybridge KT15 3NB, UK;
- Correspondence:
| | - Sylvia S. Grierson
- Department of Virology, Animal and Plant Health Agency, Weybridge KT15 3NB, UK;
| | - Richard P. Smith
- Department of Epidemiological Sciences, Animal and Plant Health Agency, Weybridge KT15 3NB, UK;
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Bigoraj E, Paszkiewicz W, Rzeżutka A. Porcine Blood and Liver as Sporadic Sources of Hepatitis E Virus (HEV) in the Production Chain of Offal-Derived Foodstuffs in Poland. FOOD AND ENVIRONMENTAL VIROLOGY 2021; 13:347-356. [PMID: 33891305 PMCID: PMC8379118 DOI: 10.1007/s12560-021-09475-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 04/09/2021] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Pig's blood and liver are valuable edible slaughter by-products which are also the major ingredients of offal-derived foodstuffs. The aim of the study was an evaluation of the occurrence of hepatitis E virus (HEV) and porcine adenovirus (pAdV) as an index virus of faecal contamination in pig's blood and liver for human consumption. In total, 246 samples of retail liver (n = 100) and pooled pig's blood (n = 146) were analysed for the presence of HEV and pAdV. Blood samples were individually collected from 1432 pigs at slaughter age. Viral genomic material, including RNA of a sample process control virus was isolated from food samples using a QIAamp® Viral RNA Mini Kit. Virus-specific IAC-controlled real-time PCR methods were used for detection of target viruses. HEV RNA was found in 6 (2.4%; 95% CI: 0.9-5.2) out of 246 samples of tested foodstuffs. The virus was detected in pig's blood (3.4%; 95% CI: 1.1-7.8) and liver (1.0%; 95% CI: 0.0-5.0) with no significant differences observed in the frequency of its occurrence between the two by-products (t = 1.33; p = 0.182 > 0.05); however PAdV was detected more frequently in pig's blood than in liver (t = 4.65; p = 0.000 < 0.05). The HEV strains belonged to the 3f and 3e subtype groups and the pAdV strains were assigned to serotype 5. PAdV was detected in pigs regardless of the farm size from which they originated. The number of animals raised on the farm (the farm size) had no influence on the occurrence of HEV or pAdV infections in pigs (F = 0.81, p = 0.447 > 0.05 for HEV; F = 0.42, p = 0.655 > 0.05 for pAdV). Although HEV was detected in pig's offal only sporadically, consumers cannot treat its occurrence with disregard as it demonstrates that HEV-contaminated pig tissues can enter the food chain.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Bigoraj
- Department of Food and Environmental Virology, National Veterinary Research Institute, Al. Partyzantów 57, 24-100, Puławy, Poland
| | - W Paszkiewicz
- Department of Food Hygiene of Animal Origin, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, ul. Akademicka 12, 20-950, Lublin, Poland
| | - A Rzeżutka
- Department of Food and Environmental Virology, National Veterinary Research Institute, Al. Partyzantów 57, 24-100, Puławy, Poland.
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9
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Pavia G, Gioffrè A, Pirolo M, Visaggio D, Clausi MT, Gherardi M, Samele P, Ciambrone L, Di Natale R, Spatari G, Visca P, Casalinuovo F. Seroprevalence and phylogenetic characterization of hepatitis E virus in pig farms in Southern Italy. Prev Vet Med 2021; 194:105448. [PMID: 34333413 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2021.105448] [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: 04/22/2021] [Revised: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection is an emerging public health problem in industrialized countries. The infection is associated with waterborne epidemics and transmitted via faecal-oral route. Zoonotic cases of HEV in humans have increased in Europe, and HEV genotype 3 (HEV-3) is the most frequent among humans and animals. Nevertheless, HEV surveillance in the Italian pig farming industry is patchy. Here, HEV prevalence in pig farms located in the Calabria region in Southern Italy was investigated. A total of 692 serum samples were collected from 26 farms and tested for anti-HEV IgG antibody detection. The percentage of HEV-seropositive pigs was 56.8 %. Small farm size, farrow-to-finishing production, and infrequent cleaning procedures were associated with higher HEV seroprevalence. In 12 of the HEV-seropositive farms, 67 faecal samples were collected and 10 of these (10.6 %) tested positive for HEV RNA. Seven of 10 viral RNA sequences were genotyped for phylogenetic analysis, five of which belonged to subtype HEV-3f and two to subtype HEV-3e. The high HEV seroprevalence and the circulation of HEV-3 strains among domestic pigs in the Calabria region pose a risk for the zoonotic transmission of HEV from pigs to occupational exposed workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grazia Pavia
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Angela Gioffrè
- Department of Medicine, Epidemiology, Workplace and Environmental Hygiene, Lamezia Terme Research Centre, INAIL - National Institute for Insurance against Accidents at Work, Lamezia Terme, Italy
| | - Mattia Pirolo
- Department of Science, Roma Tre University, Viale G. Marconi 446, 00146, Rome, Italy
| | - Daniela Visaggio
- Department of Science, Roma Tre University, Viale G. Marconi 446, 00146, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Monica Gherardi
- Department of Medicine, Epidemiology, Workplace and Environmental Hygiene, Monte Porzio Catone Research Centre, INAIL - National Institute for Insurance against Accidents at Work, Rome, Italy
| | - Pasquale Samele
- Department of Medicine, Epidemiology, Workplace and Environmental Hygiene, Lamezia Terme Research Centre, INAIL - National Institute for Insurance against Accidents at Work, Lamezia Terme, Italy
| | - Lucia Ciambrone
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Rossella Di Natale
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Dental, Morphological and Functional Investigations, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Giovanna Spatari
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Dental, Morphological and Functional Investigations, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Paolo Visca
- Department of Science, Roma Tre University, Viale G. Marconi 446, 00146, Rome, Italy
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Smith I, Said B, Vaughan A, Haywood B, Ijaz S, Reynolds C, Brailsford S, Russell K, Morgan D. Case-Control Study of Risk Factors for Acquired Hepatitis E Virus Infections in Blood Donors, United Kingdom, 2018-2019. Emerg Infect Dis 2021; 27:1654-1661. [PMID: 34013866 PMCID: PMC8153866 DOI: 10.3201/eid2706.203964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is the most common cause of acute viral hepatitis in England. Substantial yearly increases of autochthonous infections were observed during 2003–2016 and again during 2017–2019. Previous studies associated acute HEV cases with consumption of processed pork products, we investigated risk factors for autochthonous HEV infections in the blood donor population in England. Study participants were 117 HEV RNA–positive blood donors and 564 HEV RNA–negative blood donors. No persons with positive results were vegetarian; 97.4% of persons with positive results reported eating pork products. Consuming bacon (OR 3.0, 95% CI 1.7–5.5; p<0.0001), cured pork meats (OR 3.5, 95% CI 2.2–5.4; p<0.0001), and pigs’ liver (OR 2.9, 95% CI 1.0–8.3; p = 0.04) were significantly associated with HEV infection. Our findings confirm previous links to pork products and suggest that appropriate animal husbandry is essential to reduce the risk for HEV infection.
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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.
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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.
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Crotta M, Lavazza A, Mateus A, Guitian J. Viraemic pigs entering the food chain are the most likely source of hepatitis E virus (HEV) in pork meat: Modelling the fate of HEV during slaughtering of pigs. Food Control 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodcont.2020.107662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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13
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Meester M, Tobias TJ, Bouwknegt M, Kusters NE, Stegeman JA, van der Poel WHM. Infection dynamics and persistence of hepatitis E virus on pig farms - a review. Porcine Health Manag 2021; 7:16. [PMID: 33546777 PMCID: PMC7863251 DOI: 10.1186/s40813-021-00189-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2020] [Accepted: 01/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Hepatitis E virus (HEV) genotype 3 and 4 is a zoonosis that causes hepatitis in humans. Humans can become infected by consumption of pork or contact with pigs. Pigs are the main reservoir of the virus worldwide and the virus is present on most pig farms. Main body Though HEV is present on most farms, the proportion of infected pigs at slaughter and thus the level of exposure to consumers differs between farms and countries. Understanding the cause of that difference is necessary to install effective measures to lower HEV in pigs at slaughter. Here, HEV studies are reviewed that include infection dynamics of HEV in pigs and on farms, risk factors for HEV farm prevalence, and that describe mechanisms and sources that could generate persistence on farms. Most pigs become infected after maternal immunity has waned, at the end of the nursing or beginning of the fattening phase. Risk factors increasing the likelihood of a high farm prevalence or proportion of actively infected slaughter pigs comprise of factors such as farm demographics, internal and external biosecurity and immunomodulating coinfections. On-farm persistence of HEV is plausible, because of a high transmission rate and a constant influx of susceptible pigs. Environmental sources of HEV that enhance persistence are contaminated manure storages, water and fomites. Conclusion As HEV is persistently present on most pig farms, current risk mitigation should focus on lowering transmission within farms, especially between farm compartments. Yet, one should be aware of the paradox of increasing the proportion of actively infected pigs at slaughter by reducing transmission insufficiently. Vaccination of pigs may aid HEV control in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Meester
- Farm Animal Health unit, Department of Population Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
| | - T J Tobias
- Farm Animal Health unit, Department of Population Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | | | - N E Kusters
- Wageningen Bioveterinary Research, Lelystad, the Netherlands
| | - J A Stegeman
- Farm Animal Health unit, Department of Population Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
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Hepatitis E Virus Occurrence in Pigs Slaughtered in Italy. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11020277. [PMID: 33499160 PMCID: PMC7911034 DOI: 10.3390/ani11020277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Revised: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Hepatitis E is now recognized as an emerging zoonotic disease in Europe caused by an RNA virus (HEV) and foodborne is the main route of transmission. Human cases have been linked to the consumption of contaminated pig liver sausages, raw venison, or undercooked wild boar meat. The zoonotic genotype HEV-3 is widespread in pigs at farm level but little information is available on the occurrence of HEV-positive pigs at the slaughterhouse. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of HEV-positive pigs during slaughtering, to understand which biological samples (feces and organs) were more frequently HEV positive. Our results showed that pigs positive for HEV can be slaughtered and that the percentage of positive animals depends on the age of animals. The other main result is the presence of the virus in the plasma of animals, which may contribute to the contamination of meat (muscle). Nevertheless, muscles are rarely contaminated by HEV-RNA compared to liver, which is the organ of replication. Abstract In Europe, foodborne transmission has been clearly associated to sporadic cases and small clusters of hepatitis E in humans linked to the consumption of contaminated pig liver sausages, raw venison, or undercooked wild boar meat. In Europe, zoonotic HEV-genotype 3 strains are widespread in pig farms but little information is available on the prevalence of HEV positive pigs at slaughterhouse. In the present study, the prevalence of HEV-RNA positive pigs was assessed on 585 animals from 4 abattoirs located across Italy. Twenty-one pigs (3.6%) tested positive for HEV in either feces or liver by real-time RT-PCR. In these 21 pigs, eight diaphragm muscles resulted positive for HEV-RNA. Among animals collected in one abattoir, 4 out of 91 plasma tested positive for HEV-RNA. ELISA tests for the detection of total antibodies against HEV showed a high seroprevalence (76.8%), confirming the frequent exposure of pigs to the virus. The phylogenetic analyses conducted on sequences of both ORF1 and ORF2 fragments, shows the circulation of HEV-3c and of a novel unclassified subtype. This study provides information on HEV occurrence in pigs at the slaughterhouse, confirming that muscles are rarely contaminated by HEV-RNA compared to liver, which is the most frequently positive for HEV.
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Takova K, Koynarski T, Minkov I, Ivanova Z, Toneva V, Zahmanova G. Increasing Hepatitis E Virus Seroprevalence in Domestic Pigs and Wild Boar in Bulgaria. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10091521. [PMID: 32872096 PMCID: PMC7552291 DOI: 10.3390/ani10091521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2020] [Revised: 08/24/2020] [Accepted: 08/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a lesser-known hepatitis virus, but its worldwide spread is undisputed and has increased in recent years. The zoonotic spread of HEV, mainly due to genotype (gt) 3, emerged in developed countries in the past decade. In addition, transmission via contaminated meat from pigs and boars was also established. Detailed analysis of viral dynamics and distribution is needed in order to identify associated risk factors. The aim of the current study is to present new and additional data on the HEV distribution among pigs, and for the first-time, also among the wild boar population in Bulgaria. Abstract (1) Background: Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a causative agent of acute viral hepatitis, predominantly transmitted by the fecal–oral route. In developed countries, HEV is considered to be an emerging pathogen since the number of autochthonous cases is rising. Hepatitis E is a viral disease with a proven zoonotic potential for some of its genotypes. The main viral reservoirs are domestic pigs and wild boar. Consumption of undercooked meat, as well as occupational exposure, are key factors for the spread of HEV. In order to evaluate the risks of future viral evolution, a detailed examination of the ecology and distribution of the virus is needed. The aim of the present study is to investigate the prevalence of anti-HEV IgG Ab in domestic pigs and wild boar in Bulgaria; (2) Methods: In this study, during the period of three years between 2017 and 2019, 433 serum samples from 19 different pig farms and 1 slaughterhouse were collected and analyzed. In addition, 32 samples from wild boar were also collected and analyzed during the 2018–2019 hunting season. All samples were analyzed by commercial indirect ELISA; (3) Results: Overall, HEV seroprevalence was 60% (95% CI 42.7–77.1) in domestic pigs and 12.5% (4/32) in wild boar. The observed seroprevalence of the slaughter-aged pigs was 73.65% (95% Cl 58.7–87.3). Prevalence in domestic pigs was significantly higher in the samples collected during 2019 (98% (95% Cl 96.1–99.9)) compared to those collected during 2017 (45.33% (95% CI 2.7–87.3)) and 2018 (38.46% (95% CI 29.1–49.7.); (4) Conclusions: Our findings suggest that domesticated pigs and wild boar might be the reason for the increased HEV transmission across Bulgaria. The genotypic characterization of HEV found in pigs, wild boar and humans will give a more accurate view of the zoonotic transmission of this virus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katerina Takova
- Department of Plant Physiology and Molecular Biology, University of Plovdiv, 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria; (K.T.); (V.T.)
| | - Tsvetoslav Koynarski
- Department of Animal Genetics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Trakia University, 6000 Stara Zagora, Bulgaria;
| | - Ivan Minkov
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnologies, 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria; (I.M.); (Z.I.)
- Center of Plant Systems Biology and Biotechnology, 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | - Zdravka Ivanova
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnologies, 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria; (I.M.); (Z.I.)
| | - Valentina Toneva
- Department of Plant Physiology and Molecular Biology, University of Plovdiv, 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria; (K.T.); (V.T.)
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnologies, 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria; (I.M.); (Z.I.)
| | - Gergana Zahmanova
- Department of Plant Physiology and Molecular Biology, University of Plovdiv, 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria; (K.T.); (V.T.)
- Center of Plant Systems Biology and Biotechnology, 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +359-32-261529
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Suin V, Klamer SE, Hutse V, Wautier M, Jacques M, Abady M, Lamoral S, Verburgh V, Thomas I, Brochier B, Subissi L, Van Gucht S. Epidemiology and genotype 3 subtype dynamics of hepatitis E virus in Belgium, 2010 to 2017. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 24. [PMID: 30862337 PMCID: PMC6415497 DOI: 10.2807/1560-7917.es.2019.24.10.1800141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
BackgroundHepatitis E virus (HEV) is an emerging public health concern in high-income countries and can cause acute and chronic hepatitis. Reported numbers of indigenously acquired HEV infection have increased in the past decade in many European countries. Since 2010, the National Reference Centre (NRC) for Hepatitis Viruses has been testing samples of suspected hepatitis E cases in Belgium.AimIn this surveillance report, we present the epidemiological trends of symptomatic HEV infections in Belgium, from the distribution by age, sex and geography to the molecular characterisation of the viral strains.MethodSerum samples of suspected cases sent to the NRC between 2010 and 2017 were analysed for the presence of HEV-specific IgM and RNA. Virus was sequenced for genotyping and phylogenetic analysis in all samples containing sufficient viral RNA.ResultsThe NRC reported an increase in the number of samples from suspected cases (from 309 to 2,663 per year) and in the number of laboratory-confirmed hepatitis E cases (from 25 to 117 per year). Among 217 sequenced samples, 92.6% were genotype 3 (HEV-3), followed by 6.5% of genotype 1 and 0.9% of genotype 4. HEV-3 subtype viruses were mainly 3f, 3c and 3e. HEV-3f was the most common subtype until 2015, while HEV-3c became the most common subtype in 2016 and 2017.ConclusionThe increasing trend of HEV diagnoses in Belgium may be largely explained by increased awareness and testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Suin
- National Reference Centre of Hepatitis Viruses, Viral Diseases, Infectious Diseases in Humans, Sciensano, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Sofieke E Klamer
- European Program for Intervention Epidemiology Training, European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, Stockholm, Sweden.,Epidemiology of Infectious Diseases, Epidemiology and Public Health, Sciensano, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Veronik Hutse
- National Reference Centre of Hepatitis Viruses, Viral Diseases, Infectious Diseases in Humans, Sciensano, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Magali Wautier
- National Reference Centre of Hepatitis Viruses, Viral Diseases, Infectious Diseases in Humans, Sciensano, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Marjorie Jacques
- National Reference Centre of Hepatitis Viruses, Viral Diseases, Infectious Diseases in Humans, Sciensano, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Mona Abady
- National Reference Centre of Hepatitis Viruses, Viral Diseases, Infectious Diseases in Humans, Sciensano, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Sophie Lamoral
- National Reference Centre of Hepatitis Viruses, Viral Diseases, Infectious Diseases in Humans, Sciensano, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Vera Verburgh
- National Reference Centre of Hepatitis Viruses, Viral Diseases, Infectious Diseases in Humans, Sciensano, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Isabelle Thomas
- National Reference Centre of Hepatitis Viruses, Viral Diseases, Infectious Diseases in Humans, Sciensano, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Bernard Brochier
- National Reference Centre of Hepatitis Viruses, Viral Diseases, Infectious Diseases in Humans, Sciensano, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Lorenzo Subissi
- European Program for Public Health Microbiology Training, European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, Stockholm, Sweden.,National Reference Centre of Hepatitis Viruses, Viral Diseases, Infectious Diseases in Humans, Sciensano, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Steven Van Gucht
- National Reference Centre of Hepatitis Viruses, Viral Diseases, Infectious Diseases in Humans, Sciensano, Brussels, Belgium
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Dzierzon J, Oswaldi V, Merle R, Langkabel N, Meemken D. High Predictive Power of Meat Juice Serology on the Presence of Hepatitis E Virus in Slaughter Pigs. Foodborne Pathog Dis 2020; 17:687-692. [PMID: 32412857 DOI: 10.1089/fpd.2020.2797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) as a zoonotic agent can be responsible for an acute hepatitis in humans, which is usually self-limiting. Progression toward a chronic stage is possible, especially in immunocompromised patients. In the past decade, the number of hepatitis E cases in humans in Germany has increased enormously to 3491 cases in 2018. Domestic pigs have been identified as a main animal reservoir and the consumption of raw and undercooked pork products, that is, livers or liver products, meat or meat products, is known as a potential risk of foodborne HEV infection. The aim of this study was to determine whether serological tests are appropriate to predict the occurrence of HEV in the liver and muscle of domestic pigs in Germany. In 2018, samples of meat juice, liver, and ham muscle were collected from 250 fattening pigs at an abattoir in North West Germany. Samples were analyzed for the presence of HEV antibodies using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay respectively for the presence of HEV RNA using real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. In total, 62% (155/250) of the meat juice samples were positive for HEV antibodies at a single animal basis. At herd level, 72% (18/25) of the herds were seropositive. The HEV prevalence in the liver was 17.2% (43/250). Each positive liver sample originated from seropositive herds respectively from HEV seropositive pigs. This study demonstrates for the first time the significant correlation between a positive HEV serology and the occurrence of HEV RNA in the liver of slaughter pigs (χ2 = 31.83; p < 0.001), highlighting the significant predictive power of positive serological results on the occurrence of HEV RNA in the liver.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janine Dzierzon
- Institute of Food Safety and Food Hygiene, Working Group Meat Hygiene, Freie Universität Berlin, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Berlin, Germany
| | - Verena Oswaldi
- Institute of Food Safety and Food Hygiene, Working Group Meat Hygiene, Freie Universität Berlin, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Berlin, Germany
| | - Roswitha Merle
- Institute for Veterinary Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Freie Universität Berlin, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Berlin, Germany
| | - Nina Langkabel
- Institute of Food Safety and Food Hygiene, Working Group Meat Hygiene, Freie Universität Berlin, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Berlin, Germany
| | - Diana Meemken
- Institute of Food Safety and Food Hygiene, Working Group Meat Hygiene, Freie Universität Berlin, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Berlin, Germany
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Sooryanarain H, Meng XJ. Swine hepatitis E virus: Cross-species infection, pork safety and chronic infection. Virus Res 2020; 284:197985. [PMID: 32333941 DOI: 10.1016/j.virusres.2020.197985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2020] [Revised: 04/11/2020] [Accepted: 04/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Swine hepatitis E virus (swine HEV) belongs to the species Orthohepevirus A within the genus Orthohepevirus in the family Hepeviridae. Four different genotypes of swine HEV within the species Orthohepevirus A have been identified so far from domesticated and wild swine population: genotypes 3 (HEV-3) and 4 (HEV-4) swine HEVs are zoonotic and infect humans, whereas HEV-5 and HEV-6 are only identified from swine. As a zoonotic agent, swine HEV is an emerging public health concern in many industrialized countries. Pigs are natural reservoir for HEV, consumption of raw or undercooked pork is an important route of foodborne HEV transmission. Occupational risks such as direct contact with infected pigs also increase the risk of HEV transmission in humans. Cross-species infection of HEV-3 and HEV-4 have been documented under experimental and natural conditions. Both swine HEV-3 and swine HEV-4 infect non-human primates, the surrogates of man. Swine HEV, predominantly HEV-3, can establish chronic infection in immunocompromised patients especially in solid organ transplant recipients. The zoonotic HEV-3, and to lesser extent HEV-4, have also been shown to cause neurological diseases and kidney injury. In this review, we focus on the epidemiology of swine HEV, host and viral determinants influencing cross-species HEV infection, zoonotic infection and its associated pork safety concern, as well as swine HEV-associated chronic infection and neurological diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harini Sooryanarain
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Xiang-Jin Meng
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA, USA.
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19
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Modiyinji AF, Sanding GMAM, Atsama MA, Monamele CG, Nola M, Njouom R. Serological and molecular investigation of hepatitis E virus in pigs reservoirs from Cameroon reveals elevated seroprevalence and presence of genotype 3. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0229073. [PMID: 32040501 PMCID: PMC7010275 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0229073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2019] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a zoonotic pathogen of which pigs have been established as reservoirs. In the present study, we investigated the presence of HEV among pigs in the Center and Littoral regions of Cameroon and performed the molecular characterization of positive strains. Methodology A total of 453 serum and stool samples were randomly collected from pigs in slaughterhouses in Obala, Douala and Yaounde. All samples were examined for the presence of anti-HEV IgG and IgM antibodies using ELISA assays. IgM positive stool samples were tested for HEV RNA using an RT-PCR assay, followed by a nested PCR assay for sequencing and phylogenetic analysis. Results Overall, 216 samples (47.7%, 95% CI: 43.1%-52.3%) were positive for at least one of the serological markers of HEV infection. Amongst these, 21.0% were positives for anti-HEV IgM, 17.7% for anti-HEV IgG, and 9.1% for both. A total of eight stool samples (5.9%) were positive for HEV RNA by nested RT-PCR. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the retrieved sequences clustered within HEV genotype 3. Conclusion This study shows a high prevalence of anti-HEV antibodies and the circulation of genotype 3 in the swine population in Cameroon. Subsequent studies will be needed to elucidate the zoonotic transmission of HEV from pigs to humans in Cameroon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdou Fatawou Modiyinji
- Department of Virology, Centre Pasteur of Cameroon, Yaoundé, Cameroon
- Department of Animals Biology and Physiology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Yaoundé I, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | | | | | | | - Moise Nola
- Department of Animals Biology and Physiology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Yaoundé I, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Richard Njouom
- Department of Virology, Centre Pasteur of Cameroon, Yaoundé, Cameroon
- * E-mail:
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Sooryanarain H, Heffron CL, Hill DE, Fredericks J, Rosenthal BM, Werre SR, Opriessnig T, Meng XJ. Hepatitis E Virus in Pigs from Slaughterhouses, United States, 2017-2019. Emerg Infect Dis 2020; 26:354-357. [PMID: 31961315 PMCID: PMC6986846 DOI: 10.3201/eid2602.191348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) RNA was detected in 6.3% and HEV IgG in 40% of 5,033 serum samples from market-weight pigs at 25 slaughterhouses in 10 US states. The prevalent HEV genotype was zoonotic genotype 3, group 2. Blood of HEV-viremic pigs from slaughterhouses may contaminate pork supply chains.
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21
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García N, Hernández M, Gutierrez-Boada M, Valero A, Navarro A, Muñoz-Chimeno M, Fernández-Manzano A, Escobar FM, Martínez I, Bárcena C, González S, Avellón A, Eiros JM, Fongaro G, Domínguez L, Goyache J, Rodríguez-Lázaro D. Occurrence of Hepatitis E Virus in Pigs and Pork Cuts and Organs at the Time of Slaughter, Spain, 2017. Front Microbiol 2020; 10:2990. [PMID: 32047480 PMCID: PMC6997137 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2019.02990] [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: 09/16/2019] [Accepted: 12/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Zoonotic hepatitis E, mainly caused by hepatitis E virus (HEV) genotype (gt) 3, is a foodborne disease that has emerged in Europe in recent decades. The main animal reservoir for genotype 3 is domestic pigs. Pig liver and liver derivates are considered the major risk products, and studies focused on the presence of HEV in pig muscles are scarce. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the presence of HEV in different organs and tissues of 45 apparently healthy pigs from nine Spanish slaughterhouses (50% national production) that could enter into the food supply chain. Anti-HEV antibodies were evaluated in serum by an ELISA test. Ten samples from each animal were analyzed for the presence of HEV RNA by reverse transcription real-time PCR (RT-qPCR). The overall seroprevalence obtained was 73.3% (33/45). From the 450 samples analyzed, a total of 26 RT-qPCR positive samples were identified in the liver (7/45), feces (6/45), kidney (5/45), heart (4/45), serum (3/45), and diaphragm (1/45). This is the first report on detection of HEV RNA in kidney and heart samples of naturally infected pigs. HEV RNA detection was negative for rib, bacon, lean ham, and loin samples. These findings indicate that pig meat could be considered as a low risk material for foodborne HEV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nerea García
- VISAVET Health Surveillance Centre, Universidad Complutense Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Marta Hernández
- Division of Microbiology, Department of Biotechnology and Food Science, Universidad de Burgos, Burgos, Spain
| | - Maialen Gutierrez-Boada
- Division of Microbiology, Department of Biotechnology and Food Science, Universidad de Burgos, Burgos, Spain
| | - Antonio Valero
- Department of Food Science and Technology, University of Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Alejandro Navarro
- VISAVET Health Surveillance Centre, Universidad Complutense Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Milagros Muñoz-Chimeno
- Laboratorio de Referencia e Investigación en Hepatitis Víricas, Centro Nacional de Microbiología, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Franco Matías Escobar
- Departamento de Microbiología e Inmunología, Universidad Nacional de Río Cuarto, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Irene Martínez
- VISAVET Health Surveillance Centre, Universidad Complutense Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Carmen Bárcena
- VISAVET Health Surveillance Centre, Universidad Complutense Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Sergio González
- VISAVET Health Surveillance Centre, Universidad Complutense Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Avellón
- Laboratorio de Referencia e Investigación en Hepatitis Víricas, Centro Nacional de Microbiología, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jose M. Eiros
- Department of Microbiology, Hospital Universitario Rio Hortega, Valladolid, Spain
| | - Gislaine Fongaro
- Laboratory of Applied Virology, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, Brazil
| | - Lucas Domínguez
- VISAVET Health Surveillance Centre, Universidad Complutense Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary, Universidad Complutense Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Joaquín Goyache
- VISAVET Health Surveillance Centre, Universidad Complutense Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary, Universidad Complutense Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - David Rodríguez-Lázaro
- Division of Microbiology, Department of Biotechnology and Food Science, Universidad de Burgos, Burgos, Spain
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22
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El-Duah P, Dei D, Binger T, Sylverken A, Wollny R, Tasiame W, Oppong S, Adu-Sarkodie Y, Emikpe B, Folitse R, Drexler JF, Phillips R, Drosten C, Corman VM. Detection and genomic characterization of hepatitis E virus genotype 3 from pigs in Ghana, Africa. ONE HEALTH OUTLOOK 2020; 2:10. [PMID: 33829131 PMCID: PMC7993477 DOI: 10.1186/s42522-020-00018-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2020] [Accepted: 05/05/2020] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a major cause of human hepatitis worldwide. Zoonotic genotypes of the virus have been found in diverse animal species with pigs playing a major role. Putative risk of zoonotic infection from livestock particularly swine in Sub-Saharan Africa including Ghana is poorly understood due to scarcity of available data, especially HEV sequence information. METHODS Serum samples were collected from cattle, sheep, goats and pigs from Kumasi in the Ashanti region of Ghana. Samples were subjected to nested RT-PCR screening and quantification of HEV RNA-positive samples using real-time RT-PCR and the World Health Organization International Standard for HEV. Testing of all pig samples for antibodies was done by ELISA. Sanger sequencing and genotyping was performed and one representative complete genome was generated to facilitate genome-wide comparison to other available African HEV sequences by phylogenetic analysis. RESULTS A total of 420 samples were available from cattle (n = 105), goats (n = 124), pigs (n = 89) and sheep (n = 102). HEV Viral RNA was detected only in pig samples (10.1%). The antibody detection rate in pigs was 77.5%, with positive samples from all sampling sites. Average viral load was 1 × 105 (range 1.02 × 103 to 3.17 × 105) International Units per mL of serum with no statistically significant differences between age groups (≤ 6 month, > 6 months) by a T-test comparison of means (t = 1.4272, df = 7, p = 0.1966). Sequences obtained in this study form a monophyletic group within HEV genotype 3. Sequences from Cameroon, Ghana, Burkina Faso and Madagascar were found to share a most recent common ancestor; however this was not the case for other African HEV sequences. CONCLUSION HEV genotype 3 is highly endemic in pigs in Ghana and likely poses a zoonotic risk to people exposed to pigs. HEV genotype 3 in Ghana shares a common origin with other virus strains from Sub-Saharan Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip El-Duah
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health, Institute of Virology, Berlin, Germany
- Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research in Tropical Medicine, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Dickson Dei
- Ghana Veterinary Service, Kumasi, Ghana
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Tabea Binger
- Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research in Tropical Medicine, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Augustina Sylverken
- Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research in Tropical Medicine, Kumasi, Ghana
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Biology, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Robert Wollny
- Institute of Virology, University of Bonn Medical Centre, Bonn, Germany
| | - William Tasiame
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health, Institute of Virology, Berlin, Germany
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Samuel Oppong
- Department of Wildlife and Range Management, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Yaw Adu-Sarkodie
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Benjamin Emikpe
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Raphael Folitse
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Jan Felix Drexler
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health, Institute of Virology, Berlin, Germany
| | - Richard Phillips
- Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research in Tropical Medicine, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Christian Drosten
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health, Institute of Virology, Berlin, Germany
- German Centre for Infection Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Victor Max Corman
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health, Institute of Virology, Berlin, Germany
- German Centre for Infection Research, Berlin, Germany
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23
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Thom K, Gilhooly P, McGowan K, Malloy K, Jarvis LM, Crossan C, Scobie L, Blatchford O, Smith-Palmer A, Donnelly MC, Davidson JS, Johannessen I, Simpson KJ, Dalton HR, Petrik J. Hepatitis E virus (HEV) in Scotland: evidence of recent increase in viral circulation in humans. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 23. [PMID: 29589577 PMCID: PMC6205259 DOI: 10.2807/1560-7917.es.2018.23.12.17-00174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BackgroundPrevious studies showed low levels of circulating hepatitis E virus (HEV) in Scotland. We aimed to reassess current Scottish HEV epidemiology. Methods: Blood donor samples from five Scottish blood centres, the minipools for routine HEV screening and liver transplant recipients were tested for HEV antibodies and RNA to determine seroprevalence and viraemia. Blood donor data were compared with results from previous studies covering 2004-08. Notified laboratory-confirmed hepatitis E cases (2009-16) were extracted from national surveillance data. Viraemic samples from blood donors (2016) and chronic hepatitis E transplant patients (2014-16) were sequenced. Results: Anti-HEV IgG seroprevalence varied geographically and was highest in Edinburgh where it increased from 4.5% in 2004-08) to 9.3% in 2014-15 (p = 0.001). It was most marked in donors < 35 years. HEV RNA was found in 1:2,481 donors, compared with 1:14,520 in 2011. Notified laboratory-confirmed cases increased by a factor of 15 between 2011 and 2016, from 13 to 206. In 2011-13, 1 of 329 transplant recipients tested positive for acute HEV, compared with six cases of chronic infection during 2014-16. Of 10 sequenced viraemic donors eight and all six patients were infected with genotype 3 clade 1 virus, common in European pigs. Conclusions: The seroprevalence, number of viraemic donors and numbers of notified laboratory-confirmed cases of HEV in Scotland have all recently increased. The causes of this change are unknown, but need further investigation. Clinicians in Scotland, particularly those caring for immunocompromised patients, should have a low threshold for testing for HEV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrina Thom
- Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Pamela Gilhooly
- Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Karen McGowan
- Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Kristen Malloy
- Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Lisa M Jarvis
- Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Claire Crossan
- Department of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Linda Scobie
- Department of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Oliver Blatchford
- Department of Public Health, Glasgow University, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Alison Smith-Palmer
- Health Protection Scotland, National Services Scotland, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Mhairi C Donnelly
- Department of Hepatology, Division of Health Sciences, Edinburgh Medical School, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Janice S Davidson
- Scottish Liver Transplantation Unit, Royal Infirmary, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | | | - Kenneth J Simpson
- Department of Hepatology, Division of Health Sciences, Edinburgh Medical School, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Harry R Dalton
- Royal Cornwall Hospital and European Centre for Environment and Human Health, University of Exeter Medical School, Truro, United Kingdom
| | - Juraj Petrik
- Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
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24
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Tsachev I, Baymakova M, Ciccozzi M, Pepovich R, Kundurzhiev T, Marutsov P, Dimitrov KK, Gospodinova K, Pishmisheva M, Pekova L. Seroprevalence of Hepatitis E Virus Infection in Pigs from Southern Bulgaria. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2019; 19:767-772. [PMID: 31017536 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2018.2430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) has been isolated from humans and several animals' species. During the last years, the knowledge of HEV infection dramatically changed and enriched. The aim of this study was to estimate the seroprevalence of HEV in industrial pigs in different districts of Southern Bulgaria. Three hundred sixty swine serum samples were tested for anti-HEV IgG antibodies. The samples were collected from four industrial farms from three districts of Southern Bulgaria. HEV-specific antibodies in porcine serum were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (PrioCHECK HEV Ab porcine). The overall HEV seroprevalence was 60.3%. The seropositivity varied widely depending on age groups and investigated farms. The overall prevalence in weaners was 25%, in fattening pigs 75.8%, and in group of sows was found the highest HEV positivity of 80%. The occurrence of HEV positivity in sows and fattening pigs presented odds ratio (OR) = 17.200 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 8.8-33.7) and OR = 11.342 (95% CI: 6.1-21.0), respectively, compared to weaners. The study indicated that HEV is widespread in industrial farms in Bulgaria and presented high seroprevalence in pigs. The results found that HEV seropositivity showed age dependency. The National Health Authorities should raise awareness of HEV and its zoonotic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilia Tsachev
- Department of Microbiology, Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Trakia University, Stara Zagora, Bulgaria
| | - Magdalena Baymakova
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Military Medical Academy, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Massimo Ciccozzi
- Unit of Medical Statistics and Molecular Epidemiology, Universita Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, Rome, Italy
| | - Roman Pepovich
- Department of Infectious Pathology, Hygiene, Technology and Control of Foods from Animal Origin, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Forestry, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Todor Kundurzhiev
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Faculty of Public Health, Medical University, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Plamen Marutsov
- Department of Microbiology, Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Trakia University, Stara Zagora, Bulgaria
| | - Kiril K Dimitrov
- Department of General and Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Trakia University, Stara Zagora, Bulgaria
| | - Krasimira Gospodinova
- Department of Microbiology, Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Trakia University, Stara Zagora, Bulgaria
| | - Maria Pishmisheva
- Department of Infectious Diseases, General Hospital, Pazardzhik, Bulgaria
| | - Liliya Pekova
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Stara Zagora University Hospital, Stara Zagora, Bulgaria
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25
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Krog JS, Larsen LE, Breum SØ. Tracing Hepatitis E Virus in Pigs From Birth to Slaughter. Front Vet Sci 2019; 6:50. [PMID: 30873419 PMCID: PMC6400844 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2019.00050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2018] [Accepted: 02/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Pigs are considered the main reservoir of genotypes 3 and 4 of the human pathogen hepatitis E virus (HEV). These viruses are prevalent at a high level in swine herds globally, meaning that consumers may be exposed to HEV from the food chain if the virus is present in pigs at slaughter. The aim of this study was to determine the HEV infection dynamics from birth to slaughter using 104 pigs from 11 sows in a single production system. Serum was collected from sows at 2 weeks prior to farrowing, in addition feces and serum samples were collected from the pigs every second week, from week 1 to week 17. Feces and selected organs were also sampled from 10 pigs following slaughter at week 20. All the samples were tested for HEV RNA by real-time RT-PCR and the serum samples were tested for HEV-specific antibodies using a commercial ELISA. Maternal antibodies (MAbs) were only present in pigs from sows with high levels of antibodies and all pigs, except one, seroconverted to HEV during weeks 13–17. In total, 65.5% of the pigs tested positive for HEV RNA at least once during the study (during weeks 13, 15, and/or 17) and significantly fewer pigs with a high level of MAbs became shedders. In contrast, the level of MAbs had no impact on the time of onset and duration of virus shedding. HEV was detected in feces and organs, but not in muscle, in 3 out of 10 pigs at slaughter, indicating that detection of HEV in feces is indicative of an HEV positivity in organs. In conclusion, a high proportion of pigs in a HEV positive herd were infected and shed virus during the finisher stage and some of the pigs also contained HEV RNA in feces and organs at slaughter. The presence of MAbs reduced the prevalence of HEV shedding animals, therefore, sow vaccination may be an option to decrease the prevalence of HEV positive animals at slaughter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesper S Krog
- National Veterinary Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Lars E Larsen
- National Veterinary Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Solvej Ø Breum
- National Veterinary Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
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26
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Zhou JH, Shang Y, Cao XA, Wang YN, Liu Y, Hu Y, Lan X. Potential effects of hepatitis E virus infection in swine on public health in China. INFECTION GENETICS AND EVOLUTION 2018; 68:113-118. [PMID: 30562577 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2018.12.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2018] [Revised: 12/14/2018] [Accepted: 12/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV), a zoonotic pathogen, is the main cause of acute hepatitis worldwide. Swine serves as the main reservoir, and its infection is mainly transmitted via fecal-oral route. Due to huge consumption of pork in China, close human-swine interactions at pig farms likely contribute to high risk in zoonotic transmission of HEV. Thus, we aim to investigate the HEV prevalence in pig farm in seven provinces across the east to west China and estimate the potential effects of swine HEV on public health in China. In this study, serum samples of pig were collected for detection of anti-HEV antibodies from the seven provinces. A high seroprevalence of 67.1% was found, and no clear difference was observed among these regions. However, the age and the breeding purpose (for meat supplier or breeding offspring) play significant roles in the risk of swine HEV infection. In addition, sequence comparison of various HEV genomes isolated in China displayed that swine HEV posed obvious threats to ruminant breeding and public health. The high level of seroprevalence of swine HEV strongly plays an important role in cross-species of HEV infection. Therefore, effective measures should be performed to prevent HEV infection from infected pigs to human and other ruminants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian-Hua Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, Gansu, PR China; College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, Gansu, PR China
| | - Youjun Shang
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, Gansu, PR China
| | - Xiao-An Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, Gansu, PR China
| | - Yi-Ning Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, Gansu, PR China
| | - Yongsheng Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, Gansu, PR China
| | - Yonghao Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, Gansu, PR China; College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, Gansu, PR China.
| | - Xi Lan
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, Gansu, PR China.
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27
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Soldevila F, Edwards JC, Graham SP, Stevens LM, Crudgington B, Crooke HR, Werling D, Steinbach F. Characterization of the Myeloid Cell Populations' Resident in the Porcine Palatine Tonsil. Front Immunol 2018; 9:1800. [PMID: 30158925 PMCID: PMC6104124 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.01800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2018] [Accepted: 07/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The palatine tonsil is the portal of entry for food and air and is continuously subjected to environmental challenges, including pathogens, which use the tonsil and pharynx as a primary site of replication. In pigs, this includes the viruses causing porcine respiratory and reproductive syndrome, and classical and African swine fever; diseases that have impacted the pig production industry globally. Despite the importance of tonsils in host defense, little is known regarding the phenotype of the myeloid cells resident in the porcine tonsil. Here, we have characterized five myeloid cell populations that align to orthologous populations defined in other mammalian species: a CD4+ plasmacytoid dendritic cell (DC) defined by expression of the conserved markers E2.2 and IRF-7, a conventional dendritic cell (cDC1) population expressing CADM1highCD172alow and high levels of XCR1 able to activate allogeneic CD4 and CD8 T cells; a cDC2 population of CADM1dim cells expressing FLT3, IRF4, and CSF1R with an ability to activate allogeneic CD4 T cells; CD163+ macrophages (Mϴs) defined by high levels of endocytosis and responsiveness to LPS and finally a CD14+ population likely derived from the myelomonocytic lineage, which showed the highest levels of endocytosis, a capacity for activation of CD4+ memory T cells, combined with lower relative expression of FLT3. Increased knowledge regarding the phenotypic and functional properties of myeloid cells resident in porcine tonsil will enable these cells to be targeted for future vaccination strategies to current and emerging porcine viruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ferran Soldevila
- Virology Department, Animal and Plant Health Agency, Addlestone, United Kingdom
| | - Jane C Edwards
- Virology Department, Animal and Plant Health Agency, Addlestone, United Kingdom
| | - Simon P Graham
- The Pirbright Institute, Pirbright, United Kingdom.,School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Surrey, Guildford, United Kingdom
| | - Lisa M Stevens
- Virology Department, Animal and Plant Health Agency, Addlestone, United Kingdom
| | - Bentley Crudgington
- Virology Department, Animal and Plant Health Agency, Addlestone, United Kingdom
| | - Helen R Crooke
- Virology Department, Animal and Plant Health Agency, Addlestone, United Kingdom
| | - Dirk Werling
- Department of Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, United Kingdom
| | - Falko Steinbach
- Virology Department, Animal and Plant Health Agency, Addlestone, United Kingdom.,School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Surrey, Guildford, United Kingdom
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28
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Spancerniene U, Grigas J, Buitkuviene J, Zymantiene J, Juozaitiene V, Stankeviciute M, Razukevicius D, Zienius D, Stankevicius A. Prevalence and phylogenetic analysis of hepatitis E virus in pigs, wild boars, roe deer, red deer and moose in Lithuania. Acta Vet Scand 2018; 60:13. [PMID: 29471843 PMCID: PMC5824565 DOI: 10.1186/s13028-018-0367-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2017] [Accepted: 02/15/2018] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is one of the major causes of acute viral hepatitis worldwide. In Europe, food-borne zoonotic transmission of HEV genotype 3 has been associated with domestic pigs and wild boar. Controversial data are available on the circulation of the virus in animals that are used for human consumption, and to date, no gold standard has yet been defined for the diagnosis of HEV-associated hepatitis. To investigate the current HEV infection status in Lithuanian pigs and wild ungulates, the presence of viral RNA was analyzed by nested reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-nPCR) in randomly selected samples, and the viral RNA was subsequently genotyped. Results In total, 32.98 and 22.55% of the domestic pig samples were HEV-positive using RT-nPCR targeting the ORF1 and ORF2 fragments, respectively. Among ungulates, 25.94% of the wild boar samples, 22.58% of the roe deer samples, 6.67% of the red deer samples and 7.69% of the moose samples were positive for HEV RNA using primers targeting the ORF1 fragment. Using primers targeting the ORF2 fragment of the HEV genome, viral RNA was only detected in 17.03% of the wild boar samples and 12.90% of the roe deer samples. Phylogenetic analysis based on a 348-nucleotide-long region of the HEV ORF2 showed that all obtained sequences detected in Lithuanian domestic pigs and wildlife belonged to genotype 3. In this study, the sequences identified from pigs, wild boars and roe deer clustered within the 3i subtype reference sequences from the GenBank database. The sequences obtained from pig farms located in two different counties of Lithuania were of the HEV 3f subtype. The wild boar sequences clustered within subtypes 3i and 3h, clearly indicating that wild boars can harbor additional subtypes of HEV. For the first time, the ORF2 nucleotide sequences obtained from roe deer proved that HEV subtype 3i can be found in a novel host. Conclusion The results of the viral prevalence and phylogenetic analyses clearly demonstrated viral infection in Lithuanian pigs and wild ungulates, thus highlighting a significant concern for zoonotic virus transmission through both the food chain and direct contact with animals. Unexpected HEV genotype 3 subtype diversity in Lithuania and neighboring countries revealed that further studies are necessary to understand the mode of HEV transmission between animals and humans in the Baltic States region.
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29
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Hepatitis E virus infection in North Italy: high seroprevalence in swine herds and increased risk for swine workers. Epidemiol Infect 2017; 145:3375-3384. [PMID: 29145911 DOI: 10.1017/s0950268817002485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
We determined the hepatitis E virus (HEV) seroprevalence and detection rate in commercial swine herds in Italy's utmost pig-rich area, and assessed HEV seropositivity risk in humans as a function of occupational exposure to pigs, diet, foreign travel, medical history and hunting activities. During 2011-2014, 2700 sera from 300 swine herds were tested for anti-HEV IgG. HEV RNA was searched in 959 faecal pools from HEV-seropositive herds and in liver/bile/muscle samples from 179 pigs from HEV-positive herds. A cohort study of HEV seropositivity in swine workers (n = 149) was also performed using two comparison groups of people unexposed to swine: omnivores (n = 121) and vegetarians/vegans (n = 115). Herd-level seroprevalence was 75·6% and was highest in farrow-to-feeder herds (81·6%). Twenty-six out of 105 (24·8%) herds had HEV-positive faecal samples (25 HEV-3, one HEV-4). Only one bile sample tested positive. HEV seropositivity was 12·3% in swine workers, 0·9% in omnivores and 3·0% in vegetarians/vegans. Factors significantly associated with HEV seropositivity were occupational exposure to pigs, travel to Africa and increased swine workers' age. We concluded that HEV is widespread in Italian swine herds and HEV-4 circulation is alarming given its pathogenicity, with those occupationally exposed to pigs being at increased risk of HEV seropositivity.
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30
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Alvarado-Esquivel C, Sánchez-Anguiano LF, Hernández-Tinoco J, Alvarado-Félix ÁO. Seroepidemiology of hepatitis E virus infection in pigs in Durango State, Mexico. J Med Virol 2017; 90:328-333. [PMID: 28914975 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.24951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2017] [Accepted: 09/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
No information about hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection in pigs in the northern Mexican state of Durango exists. We determined the seroprevalence and correlates of anti-HEV IgG antibodies in pigs in Durango, Mexico. Through a cross-sectional study, we studied 427 pigs raised in backyards (n = 328), or slaughtered (n = 99) in Durango. Sera of pigs were analyzed for anti-HEV IgG antibodies using a commercially available enzyme-linked immunoassay. Antibodies to HEV were found in 193 (45.2%) of the 427 pigs studied. A significantly higher seroprevalence was observed in slaughtered pigs (79.8%) than in backyard pigs (34.8%). Bivariate analysis showed that HEV seropositivity was associated with age, sex, breed, climate, altitude, mean annual temperature, mean annual rainfall, and farm raising. Logistic regression analysis showed that HEV seropositivity was associated with the origin (Sonora State) of pigs (OR=6.51; 95%CI: 3.74-11.32; P < 0.001), and mean annual rainfall (≤600 mm) (OR=1.78; 95%CI: 1.01-3.15; P = 0.04). A high seroprevalence of HEV infection in pigs slaughtered for human consumption in Durango City was found. This is the first report of an association between HEV seropositivity in pigs and climatic factors. Infection factors found may help for the optimal planning of preventive measures against HEV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cosme Alvarado-Esquivel
- Biomedical Research Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Nutrition, Juárez University of Durango State, Avenida Universidad, Durango, Mexico
| | - Luis F Sánchez-Anguiano
- Institute for Scientific Research "Dr. Roberto Rivera Damm", Juárez University of Durango State, Avenida Universidad, Durango, Mexico
| | - Jesús Hernández-Tinoco
- Institute for Scientific Research "Dr. Roberto Rivera Damm", Juárez University of Durango State, Avenida Universidad, Durango, Mexico
| | - Ángel O Alvarado-Félix
- Biomedical Research Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Nutrition, Juárez University of Durango State, Avenida Universidad, Durango, Mexico
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31
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Donnelly MC, Scobie L, Crossan CL, Dalton H, Hayes PC, Simpson KJ. Review article: hepatitis E-a concise review of virology, epidemiology, clinical presentation and therapy. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2017; 46:126-141. [PMID: 28449246 DOI: 10.1111/apt.14109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2016] [Revised: 12/21/2016] [Accepted: 03/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a leading cause of acute icteric hepatitis and acute liver failure in the developing world. During the last decade, there has been increasing recognition of autochthonous (locally acquired) HEV infection in developed countries. Chronic HEV infection is now recognised, and in transplant recipients this may lead to cirrhosis and organ failure. AIM To detail current understanding of the molecular biology of HEV, diagnostic and therapeutic strategies and propose future directions for basic science and clinical research. METHODS PubMed was searched for English language articles using the key words "hepatitis E", "viral hepatitis", "autochthonous infection", "antiviral therapy", "liver transplantation", "acute", "chronic", "HEV", "genotype", "transmission" "food-borne", "transfusion". Additional relevant publications were identified from article reference lists. RESULTS There has been increasing recognition of autochthonous HEV infection in Western countries, mainly associated with genotype 3. Chronic HEV infection has been recognised since 2008, and in transplant recipients this may lead to cirrhosis and organ failure. Modes of transmission include food-borne transmission, transfusion of blood products and solid organ transplantation. Ribavirin therapy is used to treat patients with chronic HEV infection, but new therapies are required as there have been reports of treatment failure with ribavirin. CONCLUSIONS Autochthonous HEV infection is a clinical issue with increasing burden. Future work should focus on increasing awareness of HEV infection in the developed world, emphasising the need for clinicians to have a low threshold for HEV testing, particularly in immunosuppressed patients. Patients at potential risk of chronic HEV infection must also be educated and given advice regarding prevention of infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- M C Donnelly
- Department of Hepatology and Scottish Liver Transplant Unit, University of Edinburgh, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - L Scobie
- Department of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, UK
| | - C L Crossan
- Department of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, UK
| | - H Dalton
- Royal Cornwall Hospital Trust and European Centre for Environment and Human Health, University of Exeter, Truro, UK
| | - P C Hayes
- Department of Hepatology and Scottish Liver Transplant Unit, University of Edinburgh, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - K J Simpson
- Department of Hepatology and Scottish Liver Transplant Unit, University of Edinburgh, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
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Ricci A, Allende A, Bolton D, Chemaly M, Davies R, Fernandez Escamez PS, Herman L, Koutsoumanis K, Lindqvist R, Nørrung B, Robertson L, Ru G, Sanaa M, Simmons M, Skandamis P, Snary E, Speybroeck N, Ter Kuile B, Threlfall J, Wahlström H, Di Bartolo I, Johne R, Pavio N, Rutjes S, van der Poel W, Vasickova P, Hempen M, Messens W, Rizzi V, Latronico F, Girones R. Public health risks associated with hepatitis E virus (HEV) as a food-borne pathogen. EFSA J 2017; 15:e04886. [PMID: 32625551 PMCID: PMC7010180 DOI: 10.2903/j.efsa.2017.4886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is an important infection in humans in EU/EEA countries, and over the last 10 years more than 21,000 acute clinical cases with 28 fatalities have been notified with an overall 10-fold increase in reported HEV cases; the majority (80%) of cases were reported from France, Germany and the UK. However, as infection in humans is not notifiable in all Member States, and surveillance differs between countries, the number of reported cases is not comparable and the true number of cases would probably be higher. Food-borne transmission of HEV appears to be a major route in Europe; pigs and wild boars are the main source of HEV. Outbreaks and sporadic cases have been identified in immune-competent persons as well as in recognised risk groups such as those with pre-existing liver damage, immunosuppressive illness or receiving immunosuppressive treatments. The opinion reviews current methods for the detection, identification, characterisation and tracing of HEV in food-producing animals and foods, reviews literature on HEV reservoirs and food-borne pathways, examines information on the epidemiology of HEV and its occurrence and persistence in foods, and investigates possible control measures along the food chain. Presently, the only efficient control option for HEV infection from consumption of meat, liver and products derived from animal reservoirs is sufficient heat treatment. The development of validated quantitative and qualitative detection methods, including infectivity assays and consensus molecular typing protocols, is required for the development of quantitative microbial risk assessments and efficient control measures. More research on the epidemiology and control of HEV in pig herds is required in order to minimise the proportion of pigs that remain viraemic or carry high levels of virus in intestinal contents at the time of slaughter. Consumption of raw pig, wild boar and deer meat products should be avoided.
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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.
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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
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Molecular Epidemiology and Strain Comparison between Hepatitis E Viruses in Human Sera and Pig Livers during 2014 to 2016 in Hong Kong. J Clin Microbiol 2017; 55:1408-1415. [PMID: 28202801 DOI: 10.1128/jcm.02020-16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2016] [Accepted: 02/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) causes substantial morbidity and mortality in developing countries and is considered an emerging foodborne pathogen in developed countries in which it was previously not endemic. To investigate genetic association between human HEV infection and HEV-contaminated high-risk food in Hong Kong, we compared local virus strains obtained from hepatitis E patient sera with those surveyed from high-risk food items during 2014 to 2016. Twenty-four cases of laboratory-confirmed human HEV infections were identified from January 2014 to March 2016 in our hospitals. Five types of food items at risk of HEV contamination were purchased on a biweekly basis from April 2014 to March 2016 in two local market settings: supermarkets (lamb, oyster, and pig liver) and wet markets (oyster, pig blood curd, pig large intestine, and pig liver). HEV RNA detection was performed by a real-time reverse transcription-PCR assay. HEV RNA was detected in pig liver, pig intestine, and oyster samples with prevalences of 1.5%, 0.4%, and 0.2%, respectively. Neighbor-joining phylogenetic inference showed that all human and swine HEV strains belonged to genotype 4. HEV subtype distributions in humans and swine were highly comparable: subtype 4b predominated, while subtype 4d was the minority. Local human and swine HEV genotype 4 strains shared over 95% nucleotide identity and were genetically very similar, implicating swine as an important foodborne source of autochthonous human HEV infections in Hong Kong. Action should be taken to raise the awareness among public and health care professionals of hepatitis E as an emerging foodborne disease.
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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.
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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
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Hepatitis E Virus in Industrialized Countries: The Silent Threat. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2016; 2016:9838041. [PMID: 28070522 PMCID: PMC5192302 DOI: 10.1155/2016/9838041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2016] [Revised: 11/07/2016] [Accepted: 11/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is the main cause of acute viral hepatitis worldwide. Its presence in developing countries has been documented for decades. Developed countries were supposed to be virus-free and initially only imported cases were detected in those areas. However, sporadic and autochthonous cases of HEV infection have been identified and studies reveal that the virus is worldwide spread. Chronic hepatitis and multiple extrahepatic manifestations have also been associated with HEV. We review the data from European countries, where human, animal, and environmental data have been collected since the 90s. In Europe, autochthonous HEV strains were first detected in the late 90s and early 2000s. Since then, serological data have shown that the virus infects quite frequently the European population and that some species, such as pigs, wild boars, and deer, are reservoirs. HEV strains can be isolated from environmental samples and reach the food chain, as shown by the detection of the virus in mussels and in contaminated pork products as sausages or meat. All these data highlight the need of studies directed to control the sources of HEV to protect immunocompromised individuals that seem the weakest link of the HEV epidemiology in industrialized regions.
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