Chatterjee K, Gupta R, Omar BJ, Gupta P, Kalita D. Genotypic distribution of hepatitis C virus in Uttarakhand.
Indian J Med Microbiol 2021;
39:479-483. [PMID:
34210508 DOI:
10.1016/j.ijmmb.2021.06.009]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2021] [Revised: 04/26/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE
Hepatitis C virus is a major cause of chronic hepatitis with seven known genotypes. Uttarakhand is a north Indian state in the Sub-Himalayan region where the genotypic distribution of HCV is largely unknown. This study was undertaken in order to assess the pattern of genotype and subtype and understand the risk factors leading to transmission of Hepatitis C virus in this understudied region.
METHODS
Anti-HCV reactive cases were selected for determination of the circulating genotypes. Viral RNA was confirmed by real-time PCR. Strains were amplified and sequenced using Sanger's methods. Phylogenetic tree was constructed to determine the genotype.
RESULTS
Genotype 3 was found to be the predominant genotype majority being subtype 3a and 3b followed by genotype 1. Subtypes 3g and genotype 4a were also observed. Major risk factor found was parenteral injection therapy from unregistered medical practitioners for minor ailments.
CONCLUSIONS
Findings of our study will help in tailoring management and prevention protocols for HCV for the people of this region.
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