Phylogenetic and case-control study on hepatitis E virus infection in Germany

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Epidemiology
• Foodborne Zoonoses

Background:

• Hepatitis E is a water-borne disease prevalent in developing nations.
• Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infections are notifiable in Germany.
• There's a rising trend in non-travel-associated HEV infections with unknown transmission routes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify risk factors for autochthonous (non-travel-associated) Hepatitis E virus infections in Germany.

Main Methods:

• A case-control study was conducted involving laboratory-confirmed HEV cases and matched controls.
• Hepatitis E virus (HEV) was detected using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or serologic testing.
• Phylogenetic analysis was performed on PCR products from blood or stool samples.

Main Results:

• Of 66 participants with HEV, 45 had autochthonous infections and 21 had travel-associated disease.
• Genotypes 3 or 4 HEV were found in autochthonous cases, while genotype 1 was in travel-associated cases.
• Consumption of offal (OR 2.7) and wild boar meat (OR 4.3) were independently associated with autochthonous HEV infection.

Conclusions:

• Hepatitis E is endemic in Germany, suggesting a food-borne zoonotic transmission.
• Specific meat products, including offal and wild boar meat, are implicated in HEV transmission.
• Further investigation is needed to develop preventive measures against food-borne HEV.