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Zahmanova G, Takova K, Lukov GL, Andonov A. Hepatitis E Virus in Domestic Ruminants and Virus Excretion in Milk-A Potential Source of Zoonotic HEV Infection. Viruses 2024; 16:684. [PMID: 38793568 PMCID: PMC11126035 DOI: 10.3390/v16050684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2024] [Revised: 04/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The hepatitis E virus is a serious health concern worldwide, with 20 million cases each year. Growing numbers of autochthonous HEV infections in industrialized nations are brought on via the zoonotic transmission of HEV genotypes 3 and 4. Pigs and wild boars are the main animal reservoirs of HEV and play the primary role in HEV transmission. Consumption of raw or undercooked pork meat and close contact with infected animals are the most common causes of hepatitis E infection in industrialized countries. However, during the past few years, mounting data describing HEV distribution has led experts to believe that additional animals, particularly domestic ruminant species (cow, goat, sheep, deer, buffalo, and yak), may also play a role in the spreading of HEV. Up to now, there have not been enough studies focused on HEV infections associated with animal milk and the impact that they could have on the epidemiology of HEV. This critical analysis discusses the role of domestic ruminants in zoonotic HEV transmissions. More specifically, we focus on concerns related to milk safety, the role of mixed farming in cross-species HEV infections, and what potential consequences these may have on public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gergana Zahmanova
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of Plovdiv, 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
- Department of Technology Transfer and IP Management, Center of Plant Systems Biology and Biotechnology, 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | - Katerina Takova
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of Plovdiv, 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | - Georgi L. Lukov
- Faculty of Sciences, Brigham Young University–Hawaii, Laie, HI 96762, USA
| | - Anton Andonov
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2, Canada;
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Suluku R, Jabaty J, Fischer K, Diederich S, Groschup MH, Eiden M. Hepatitis E Seroprevalence and Detection of Genotype 3 Strains in Domestic Pigs from Sierra Leone Collected in 2016 and 2017. Viruses 2024; 16:558. [PMID: 38675900 PMCID: PMC11054517 DOI: 10.3390/v16040558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2024] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is the main cause of acute hepatitis in humans worldwide and is responsible for a large number of outbreaks especially in Africa. Human infections are mainly caused by genotypes 1 and 2 of the genus Paslahepevirus, which are exclusively associated with humans. In contrast, viruses of genotypes 3 and 4 are zoonotic and have their main reservoir in domestic and wild pigs, from which they can be transmitted to humans primarily through the consumption of meat products. Both genotypes 3 and 4 are widespread in Europe, Asia, and North America and lead to sporadic cases of hepatitis E. However, there is little information available on the prevalence of these genotypes and possible transmission routes from animal reservoirs to humans in African countries. We therefore analysed 1086 pig sera collected in 2016/2017 in four districts in Sierra Leone for antibodies against HEV using a newly designed in-house ELISA. In addition, the samples were also analysed for HEV RNA by quantitative real-time RT-PCR. The overall seroprevalence in Sierra Leone was low with only 44 positive sera and a prevalence of 4.0%. Two serum pools were RT-PCR-positive and recovered partial sequences clustered into the genotype 3 (HEV-3) of the order Paslahepevirus, species Paslahepevirus balayani. The results are the first evidence of HEV-3 infection in pigs from Sierra Leone and demonstrate a low circulation of the virus in these animals to date. Further studies should include an examination of humans, especially those with close contact with pigs and porcine products, as well as environmental sampling to evaluate public health effects within the framework of a One Health approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roland Suluku
- Animal Science, Serology and Molecular Laboratory, Njala University, Bo, Sierra Leone;
| | - Juliet Jabaty
- Sierra Leone Agricultural Research Institute, Teko Livestock Research Centre, Teko, Sierra Leone;
| | - Kerstin Fischer
- Institute of Novel and Emerging Infectious Diseases (INNT), Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, 17493 Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany; (K.F.); (S.D.); (M.H.G.)
| | - Sandra Diederich
- Institute of Novel and Emerging Infectious Diseases (INNT), Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, 17493 Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany; (K.F.); (S.D.); (M.H.G.)
| | - Martin H. Groschup
- Institute of Novel and Emerging Infectious Diseases (INNT), Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, 17493 Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany; (K.F.); (S.D.); (M.H.G.)
- Partner Site Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel-Riems, German Centre for Infection Research (DZIF), 17493 Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Martin Eiden
- Institute of Novel and Emerging Infectious Diseases (INNT), Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, 17493 Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany; (K.F.); (S.D.); (M.H.G.)
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Oluremi AS, Casares-Jimenez M, Opaleye OO, Caballero-Gomez J, Ogbolu DO, Lopez-Lopez P, Corona-Mata D, Rivero-Juarez A, Rivero A. Butchering activity is the main risk factor for hepatitis E virus ( Paslahepevirus balayani) infection in southwestern Nigeria: a prospective cohort study. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1247467. [PMID: 37822752 PMCID: PMC10562583 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1247467] [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: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Paslahepevirus balayani (Hepatitis E virus; HEV) is an emerging virus that poses as a public health threat. The virus is now reported to be the leading cause of acute viral hepatitis, with a unique impact on African settings. Our aim was to evaluate the prevalence and risk factors for HEV infection in three cohorts (animal handlers, villagers, and students). Methods A prospective cross-sectional study was carried out on a total of 752 subjects from southwestern Nigeria. In all individuals, anti-HEV IgG and anti-HEV IgM antibodies were evaluated by using ELISA (confirming positive results via immunoblotting), and serum viral RNA was evaluated by using two RT-PCR assays. Results The overall seroprevalence of HEV IgG and HEV IgM was 14.9% (95% CI: 12.5-17.6%) and 1.3% (95% CI: 0.7-2.5%), respectively. We observed the highest seroprevalence among animal contact individuals, with butchers being the population with the highest HEV IgG seroprevalence (31.1%). Similarly, HEV IgM was higher in the animal contact group (2.2%) than in the non-animal contact cohort (0%). Discussions Viral RNA was not detected in any of the samples. Butchering was significantly associated with higher HEV prevalence. Although all efforts to prevent HEV in Africa have focused on the chlorination of water, our study suggests that most new infections could currently be linked to animal manipulation. Therefore, education and guidelines must be provided in southwest Nigeria to ensure that animal handling and processing methods are safe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adeolu S. Oluremi
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Nigeria
| | - Maria Casares-Jimenez
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, Hospital Universitario Reina Sofia, Instituto Maimonides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Universidad de Córdoba (UCO), Córdoba, Spain
| | - Oluyinka O. Opaleye
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Nigeria
| | - Javier Caballero-Gomez
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, Hospital Universitario Reina Sofia, Instituto Maimonides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Universidad de Córdoba (UCO), Córdoba, Spain
- CIBERINFEC, ISCIII – CIBER de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Grupo de Investigación en Sanidad Animal y Zoonosis (GISAZ), UIC Zoonosis y Enfermedades Emergentes ENZOEM, Universidad de Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain
| | - David Olusoga Ogbolu
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Osun State University, Ogbomoso, Nigeria
| | - Pedro Lopez-Lopez
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, Hospital Universitario Reina Sofia, Instituto Maimonides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Universidad de Córdoba (UCO), Córdoba, Spain
- CIBERINFEC, ISCIII – CIBER de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Diana Corona-Mata
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, Hospital Universitario Reina Sofia, Instituto Maimonides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Universidad de Córdoba (UCO), Córdoba, Spain
| | - Antonio Rivero-Juarez
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, Hospital Universitario Reina Sofia, Instituto Maimonides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Universidad de Córdoba (UCO), Córdoba, Spain
- CIBERINFEC, ISCIII – CIBER de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Antonio Rivero
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, Hospital Universitario Reina Sofia, Instituto Maimonides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Universidad de Córdoba (UCO), Córdoba, Spain
- CIBERINFEC, ISCIII – CIBER de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
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Current Knowledge of Hepatitis E Virus (HEV) Epidemiology in Ruminants. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11101124. [PMID: 36297181 PMCID: PMC9609093 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11101124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection represents an emerging public health concern worldwide. In industrialized countries, increasing numbers of autochthonous cases of human HEV infection are caused by zoonotic transmission of genotypes 3 and 4, mainly through the consumption of contaminated raw or undercooked meat of infected pigs and wild boars, which are considered the main reservoirs of HEV. However, in the last few years, accumulating evidence seems to indicate that several other animals, including different ruminant species, may harbor HEV. Understanding the impact of HEV infection in ruminants and identifying the risk factors affecting transmission among animals and to humans is critical in order to determine their role in the epidemiological cycle of HEV. In this review, we provide a summary of current knowledge on HEV ecology in ruminants. A growing body of evidence has revealed that these animal species may be potential important hosts of HEV, raising concerns about the possible implications for public health.
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Bagulo H, Majekodunmi AO, Welburn SC, Bimi L. Hepatitis E seroprevalence and risk factors in humans and pig in Ghana. BMC Infect Dis 2022; 22:132. [PMID: 35130864 PMCID: PMC8822658 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-022-07127-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Although Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection has significant negative impact on the health and wellbeing of underprivileged populations, the burden of HEV in Ghana is still unclear, despite widespread water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) related conditions that predispose people to the risk of infection. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted to explore rates of HEV seroprevalence and HEV prevalence, as well as risk factors in humans and domestic pigs in Ghana. These were determined using ELISAs manufactured by Wantai Beijing Biopharmaceuticals, China. The study involved 1365 community members, 105 pig farmers and 474 domestic pigs from four administrative regions of Ghana. Results Results showed overall seroprevalence and prevalence of 12.4% and 0.7% in community members and 15.2% and 2.9% in pig farmers respectively. There was no significant difference in the seroprevalence between the two groups (Z = 0.851; p = 0.3953). However, the prevalence in pig farmers was significantly higher than in community members (Z = 2.412; p = 0.016). Age (OR = 1.369, CI = 1.243 – 1.508; p = 0.0000), gender (OR = 1.419, CI = 1.101 – 1.991; p = 0.043), and the region of residence (OR = 1.569, CI = 1.348 – 1.827; p = 0.0000) were significant risk factors for HEV seroprevalence in a multivariate regression model. In pigs, overall seroprevalence and prevalence of 62.4% and 5.5% were recorded respectively. A significant difference in seroprevalence was found between confined (6.7%) and free-range pigs (88.3%), (Z = 7.492; p < 0.00001) in the Volta Region. Multivariate logistic regression showed a significant association between seroprevalence and husbandry (OR = 7.051, CI = 3.558– 13.972; p = 0.0000) and region (OR = 4.602, CI = 2.300 – 9.205; p = 0.0000) in pigs in the Volta and Greater Accra Region. Conclusion From this study, HEV is endemic in Ghana with high seroprevalence in humans and pig populations. This underscores the need for awareness creation and action for prevention and control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Husein Bagulo
- Zhejiang University - University of Edinburgh Institute, Zhejiang University International Campus, 718 East Haizhou Rd, Haining, Zhejiang, 314400, People's Republic of China. .,Livestock and Poultry Research Centre, College of Basic and Applied Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, P. O Box LG 38, Accra, Ghana. .,School of Biomedical Sciences, Edinburgh Medical School, College of Medicine & Veterinary Medicine, The University of Edinburgh, 1 George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9JZ, UK.
| | - Ayodele O Majekodunmi
- Zhejiang University - University of Edinburgh Institute, Zhejiang University International Campus, 718 East Haizhou Rd, Haining, Zhejiang, 314400, People's Republic of China.,Livestock and Poultry Research Centre, College of Basic and Applied Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, P. O Box LG 38, Accra, Ghana.,School of Biomedical Sciences, Edinburgh Medical School, College of Medicine & Veterinary Medicine, The University of Edinburgh, 1 George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9JZ, UK
| | - Susan C Welburn
- Zhejiang University - University of Edinburgh Institute, Zhejiang University International Campus, 718 East Haizhou Rd, Haining, Zhejiang, 314400, People's Republic of China.,School of Biomedical Sciences, Edinburgh Medical School, College of Medicine & Veterinary Medicine, The University of Edinburgh, 1 George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9JZ, UK
| | - Langbong Bimi
- Department of Animal Biology & Conservation Science, College of Basic and Applied Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
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Tialla D, Cissé A, Ouédraogo GA, Hübschen JM, Tarnagda Z, Snoeck CJ. Prevalence of hepatitis E virus antibodies in cattle in Burkina Faso associated with swine mixed farming. J Vet Sci 2022; 23:e33. [PMID: 35332710 PMCID: PMC9149500 DOI: 10.4142/jvs.21235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2021] [Revised: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Endemic circulation of human-specific hepatitis E virus (HEV) genotypes 1 and 2 may occult the importance of sporadic zoonotic HEV transmissions in Africa. Increasing numbers of studies reporting anti-HEV antibodies in cattle and the discovery of infectious HEV in cow milk has raised public health concern, but cattle exposure has seldom been investigated in Africa. Objectives This study aimed at investigating the role of cows in the epidemiology of HEV in Burkina Faso and farmers habits in terms of dairy product consumption as a prerequisite to estimate the risk of transmission to humans. Methods Sera from 475 cattle and 192 pigs were screened for the presence of anti-HEV antibodies while HEV RNA in swine stools was detected by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. Data on mixed farming, dairy product consumption and selling habits were gathered through questionnaires. Results The overall seroprevalence in cattle was 5.1% and herd seroprevalence reached 32.4% (11/34). Herd seropositivity was not associated with husbandry practice or presence of rabbits on the farms. However, herd seropositivity was associated with on-site presence of pigs, 80.7% of which had anti-HEV antibodies. The majority of farmers reported to preferentially consume raw milk based dairy products. Conclusions Concomitant presence of pigs on cattle farms constitutes a risk factor for HEV exposure of cattle. However, the risk of HEV infections associated with raw cow dairy product consumption is currently considered as low.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dieudonné Tialla
- Unit of Epidemic-Prone Diseases, Emerging Diseases and Zoonoses (UMEMEZ), National Influenza Reference Laboratory (LNR-G), Department of Biomedical and Public Health, Health Science Research Institute (IRSS), National Centre for Scientific and Technological Research (CNRST), Ouagadougou, 03 BP 7192, Burkina Faso
- Department Animal Health, National School of Animal Husbandry and Health (ENESA), Ouagadougou, Secteur 28, Burkina Faso
| | - Assana Cissé
- Unit of Epidemic-Prone Diseases, Emerging Diseases and Zoonoses (UMEMEZ), National Influenza Reference Laboratory (LNR-G), Department of Biomedical and Public Health, Health Science Research Institute (IRSS), National Centre for Scientific and Technological Research (CNRST), Ouagadougou, 03 BP 7192, Burkina Faso
| | - Georges Anicet Ouédraogo
- Laboratory of Research and Teaching in Health and Animal Biotechnology (LARESBA), University Nazi Boni, Bobo-Dioulasso, 01 BP 109, Burkina Faso
| | - Judith M. Hübschen
- Clinical and Applied Virology Group, Department of Infection and Immunity, Luxembourg Institute of Health (LIH), Esch-sur-Alzette, L-4354, Luxembourg
| | - Zékiba Tarnagda
- Unit of Epidemic-Prone Diseases, Emerging Diseases and Zoonoses (UMEMEZ), National Influenza Reference Laboratory (LNR-G), Department of Biomedical and Public Health, Health Science Research Institute (IRSS), National Centre for Scientific and Technological Research (CNRST), Ouagadougou, 03 BP 7192, Burkina Faso
| | - Chantal J. Snoeck
- Clinical and Applied Virology Group, Department of Infection and Immunity, Luxembourg Institute of Health (LIH), Esch-sur-Alzette, L-4354, Luxembourg
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Modiyinji AF, Bigna JJ, Kenmoe S, Simo FBN, Amougou MA, Ndangang MS, Nola M, Njouom R. Epidemiology of hepatitis E virus infection in animals in Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Vet Res 2021; 17:50. [PMID: 33494758 PMCID: PMC7831161 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-021-02749-5] [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: 08/31/2019] [Accepted: 01/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a major cause of acute hepatitis in humans worldwide and have high burden in the resource-limited countries. Better knowledge of the epidemiology of hepatitis in animals in Africa can help to understand the epidemiology among humans. The objective of this study was to summarize the prevalence of HEV infection and distribution of HEV genotypes among animals in Africa. METHODS In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we comprehensively searched PubMed, EMBASE, African Journals Online, and Africa Index Medicus from January 1st, 2000 to March 22th, 2020 without any language restriction. We considered cross-sectional studies of HEV infection in animals in Africa. Study selection, data extraction, and methodological quality of included studies were done independently by two investigators. Prevalence data were pooled using the random-effects meta-analysis. This review was registered in PROSPERO, CRD42018087684. RESULTS Twenty-five studies (13 species and 6983 animals) were included. The prevalence (antibodies or ribonucleic acid [RNA]) of HEV infection in animals varied widely depending on biological markers of HEV infection measured: 23.4% (95% confidence interval; 12.0-37.2) for anti-HEV immunoglobulins G, 13.1% (3.1-28.3) for anti-HEV immunoglobulins M, and 1.8% (0.2-4.3) for RNA; with substantial heterogeneity. In subgroup analysis, the immunoglobulins G seroprevalence was higher among pigs 37.8% (13.9-65.4). The following HEV genotypes were reported in animals: Rat-HEV genotype 1 (rats and horses), HEV-3 (pigs), HEV-7 (dromedaries), and Bat hepeviruses (bats). CONCLUSIONS We found a high prevalence of HEV infection in animals in Africa and HEV genotypes close to that of humans. Some animals in Africa could be the reservoir of HEV, highlighting the need of molecular epidemiological studies for investigating zoonotic transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdou Fatawou Modiyinji
- Department of Virology, Centre Pasteur of Cameroon, Yaoundé, Cameroon.,Department of Biology and Animal Physiology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Yaoundé I, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Jean Joel Bigna
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Centre Pasteur of Cameroon, Yaoundé, Cameroon.,School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Paris Sud, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Sebastien Kenmoe
- Department of Virology, Centre Pasteur of Cameroon, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Fredy Brice N Simo
- Department of Virology, Centre Pasteur of Cameroon, Yaoundé, Cameroon.,Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Centre Pasteur of Cameroon, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Marie A Amougou
- Department of Virology, Centre Pasteur of Cameroon, Yaoundé, Cameroon.,Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Centre Pasteur of Cameroon, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Marie S Ndangang
- Department of Medical Information and Informatics, Rouen University Hospital, Rouen, France
| | - Moise Nola
- Department of Biology and Animal Physiology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Yaoundé I, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Richard Njouom
- Department of Virology, Centre Pasteur of Cameroon, Yaoundé, Cameroon.
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Bagulo H, Majekodunmi AO, Welburn SC. Hepatitis E in Sub Saharan Africa - A significant emerging disease. One Health 2020; 11:100186. [PMID: 33204807 PMCID: PMC7653283 DOI: 10.1016/j.onehlt.2020.100186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Revised: 10/09/2020] [Accepted: 10/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E is an emerging endemic disease found across the African continent, but there are clear differences in epidemiology between North Africa and countries south of the Sahara. In this systematic review, Google scholar and PubMed databases were searched for peer-reviewed articles on HEV epidemiology. Publications meeting our inclusion criteria were critically reviewed to extract consistent findings and identify knowledge gaps. Hepatitis E has been reported in 25 of the 49 countries in Sub Saharan Africa. Mortality rates of 1–2% in the general population and ~ 20% in pregnant women. Outbreaks were closely linked to refugees and Internally Displaced Persons in camps which accounted for 50% of reported outbreaks. There was very little research and concrete evidence for sources of contamination and transmission routes. There are indications of zoonotic transmission of Hepatitis E Virus infection but further research in these fields is required. No data from 50% of African countries Outbreaks closely linked to refugee and IDP camps Little data on sources of HEV contamination Indications but little evidence of zoonotic transmission Low awareness amongst health professionals and general public
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Affiliation(s)
- Husein Bagulo
- Zhejiang University - University of Edinburgh Institute, Zhejiang University International Campus, 718 East Haizhou Rd, Haining, Zhejiang Province, 314400, China.,Livestock and Poultry Research Centre, College of Basic and Applied Sciences, University of Ghana, P. O Box LG 25, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Ayodele O Majekodunmi
- Zhejiang University - University of Edinburgh Institute, Zhejiang University International Campus, 718 East Haizhou Rd, Haining, Zhejiang Province, 314400, China.,Livestock and Poultry Research Centre, College of Basic and Applied Sciences, University of Ghana, P. O Box LG 25, Legon, Accra, Ghana.,School of Biomedical Sciences, Edinburgh Medical School, College of Medicine & Veterinary Medicine, The University of Edinburgh, 1 George Square, Edinburgh EH8 9JZ, United Kingdom
| | - Susan C Welburn
- Zhejiang University - University of Edinburgh Institute, Zhejiang University International Campus, 718 East Haizhou Rd, Haining, Zhejiang Province, 314400, China.,School of Biomedical Sciences, Edinburgh Medical School, College of Medicine & Veterinary Medicine, The University of Edinburgh, 1 George Square, Edinburgh EH8 9JZ, United Kingdom
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Olayinka A, Ifeorah IM, Omotosho O, Faleye TOC, Odukaye O, Bolaji O, Ibitoye I, Ope-Ewe O, Adewumi MO, Adeniji JA. A possible risk of environmental exposure to HEV in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria. J Immunoassay Immunochem 2020; 41:875-884. [PMID: 32787711 DOI: 10.1080/15321819.2020.1804933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection is both a major public health concern and emerging global health concern, with a documented incidence of 20 million, 3.4 million clinical cases, 70,000 deaths, and 3,000 stillbirths. The aetiologic agent, HEV is a primarily enterally transmitted hepatotropic virus. Fecal samples were collected from three selected pig farms across Ibadan, South-west Nigeria. Randomly picked samples were pooled per unit pen and fecal suspensions prepared were subjected to HEV Antigen (Ag) enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Molecular probing was done by Reverse Transcription and nested polymerase reaction (RT-nPCR) and deep sequencing. Sequencing was done paired-end for 300 cycles using the HiSeq system. Overall farm prevalence of 66.7% (2/3) and prevalence at individual level of 13.2% (9/68) were recorded. All nine samples positive for the ELISA screen were negative when subjected to RT-nPCR assays. Further, on deep sequencing, no HEV genomic fragment was found in the sample using de-novo assembly. Findings suggest possibly inapparent HEV in the pigs studied or a yet to be identified protein with HEV-Ag cross-reactivity ability on ELISA, thus constituting a possible risk of exposure to HEV infection in the population. Consequently, we recommend prompt intervention to unravel the mystery and break the chain of transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adebowale Olayinka
- Department of Virology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - I M Ifeorah
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences and Technology, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria
| | - Oladipo Omotosho
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - T O C Faleye
- Department of Virology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria.,Centre for Human Virology and Genomics, Department of Microbiology, Nigerian Institute for Medical Research, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Oladapo Odukaye
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Oluremi Bolaji
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria 6. Infectious Disease Institute, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, NigeriaInfectious Disease Institute, College of Medicine, Unive
| | - Ibipeju Ibitoye
- Department of Virology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Oludayo Ope-Ewe
- Department of Virology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - M O Adewumi
- Department of Virology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria.,WHO National Polio Laboratory, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - J A Adeniji
- Department of Virology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria.,WHO National Polio Laboratory, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
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Systematic Review of Important Viral Diseases in Africa in Light of the 'One Health' Concept. Pathogens 2020; 9:pathogens9040301. [PMID: 32325980 PMCID: PMC7238228 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens9040301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2020] [Revised: 04/03/2020] [Accepted: 04/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Emerging and re-emerging viral diseases are of great public health concern. The recent emergence of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) related coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) in December 2019 in China, which causes COVID-19 disease in humans, and its current spread to several countries, leading to the first pandemic in history to be caused by a coronavirus, highlights the significance of zoonotic viral diseases. Rift Valley fever, rabies, West Nile, chikungunya, dengue, yellow fever, Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever, Ebola, and influenza viruses among many other viruses have been reported from different African countries. The paucity of information, lack of knowledge, limited resources, and climate change, coupled with cultural traditions make the African continent a hotspot for vector-borne and zoonotic viral diseases, which may spread globally. Currently, there is no information available on the status of virus diseases in Africa. This systematic review highlights the available information about viral diseases, including zoonotic and vector-borne diseases, reported in Africa. The findings will help us understand the trend of emerging and re-emerging virus diseases within the African continent. The findings recommend active surveillance of viral diseases and strict implementation of One Health measures in Africa to improve human public health and reduce the possibility of potential pandemics due to zoonotic viruses.
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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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Majekodunmi AO, Addo HO, Bagulo H, Bimi L. Integrated value-chain and risk assessment of Pig-Related Zoonoses in Ghana. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0224918. [PMID: 31710646 PMCID: PMC6844477 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0224918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2019] [Accepted: 10/24/2019] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The marked increase in the pig-trade in Ghana has raised concerns about increased transmission of related zoonotic diseases. A study on pig-related zoonoses along the pork value-chain was conducted in Greater Accra and Upper East Regions of Ghana. Results showed significant taenia (60%) and trichinella (8%) seroprevalence in pigs in Upper East with little evidence of transmission to humans. Sero-prevalence of HEV was high in both pigs (85%) and humans (37%). Sero-prevalence rates were significantly higher in Upper East than Greater Accra. Pig handlers in Accra had significantly higher sero-prevalence rates (58%) than other community members (18%) but there was no such association in the Upper East. Given the high rates of mortality, miscarriage and stillbirth associated with HEV in pregnancy, it is a cause for concern that 31% women of child-bearing age tested sero-positive for HEV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayodele O. Majekodunmi
- Livestock and Poultry Research Centre, College of Basic and Applied Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
- * E-mail:
| | - Henry Ofosu Addo
- Department of Animal Biology & Conservation Science, College of Basic and Applied Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Husein Bagulo
- Livestock and Poultry Research Centre, College of Basic and Applied Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Langbong Bimi
- Department of Animal Biology & Conservation Science, College of Basic and Applied Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
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Okagbue HI, Adamu MO, Bishop SA, Oguntunde PE, Odetunmibi OA, Opanuga AA. Hepatitis E Infection in Nigeria: A Systematic Review. Open Access Maced J Med Sci 2019; 7:1719-1722. [PMID: 31210829 PMCID: PMC6560297 DOI: 10.3889/oamjms.2019.143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2019] [Revised: 05/07/2019] [Accepted: 05/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Research done globally on hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection is far fewer compared with other types of hepatitis virus infection. Little is known on the prevalence of HEV in Nigeria. AIM: The present study presents the prevalence of HEV infection in Nigeria from a few available research papers on HEV. The detailed statistical analysis was used to analyse the prevalence of HEV in humans and animals. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A literature search in Web of Science, Scopus and PubMed databases was done, and a final 7 articles were selected. Minitab 17.0 was used to perform the correlational and binary logistic analyses. RESULTS: Serum and faecal analysis of blood and stool samples of 1178 humans and 210 pigs (animals) were done, and the presence of anti-HEV IgG or HEV RNA in the study samples were 127 and 138 respectively. Further analysis showed the prevalence of HEV are 10.8% and 65.7% in humans and animals, respectively. Weak positive non-significant association (r = 0.327, p-value = 0.474) was obtained between the target (humans and animal) and the HEV infection (positive) groups. The application of binary logistic regression yielded an equation that can be used to predict the target group from the HEV positive humans or animals. Generally, the logistic model was not statistically significant (p-value = 0.376), and the model was able to explain 9.3% of the deviation or variability of the model. The odds ratio is OR = 1.0344 with 0.9550, 1.204 95% Confidence Interval (CI). Thus, in Nigeria, the odds of prevalence of HEV in animals are 1.0344 higher than humans. CONCLUSION: The risk factors obtained from the few available articles are consistent with the global epidemiology of HEV infection. Food and animal handlers and those that consume unsafe water are the key people at risk of HEV infection in Nigeria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hilary I Okagbue
- Department of Mathematics, College of Science and Technology, Covenant University, Ota, Nigeria
| | - Muminu O Adamu
- Department of Mathematics, Faculty of Science, University of Lagos, Akoka, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Sheila A Bishop
- Department of Mathematics, College of Science and Technology, Covenant University, Ota, Nigeria
| | - Pelumi E Oguntunde
- Department of Mathematics, College of Science and Technology, Covenant University, Ota, Nigeria
| | - Oluwole A Odetunmibi
- Department of Mathematics, College of Science and Technology, Covenant University, Ota, Nigeria
| | - Abiodun A Opanuga
- Department of Mathematics, College of Science and Technology, Covenant University, Ota, Nigeria
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